Port Blair, July 25, 2026: Vice Admiral Vineet McCarty, AVSM, Commander-in-Chief, Andaman and Nicobar Command (CINCAN), visited the Southern Group of Islands to assess Tri-Service operational preparedness and review the progress of strategic infrastructure development aimed at strengthening India’s southern maritime frontier.
During the visit, the Commander-in-Chief received comprehensive briefings on the operational readiness of Andaman and Nicobar Command (ANC) units deployed across the Southern Group of Islands. The review focused on the preparedness of forces to respond effectively to evolving maritime security challenges while maintaining a high level of operational capability in the strategically important island chain.
Vice Admiral McCarty also reviewed ongoing strategic infrastructure development projects designed to enhance the command’s operational effectiveness, logistics support and surveillance capabilities. The development of critical infrastructure across the islands remains an important component of India’s efforts to strengthen its presence in the Indian Ocean Region and improve the ability of the Armed Forces to undertake sustained operations.
As part of his visit, the CINCAN interacted with personnel deployed at forward locations, acknowledging their dedication and professionalism while serving in demanding and remote operational environments. He appreciated their commitment to maintaining a constant vigil and ensuring the security of India’s maritime interests.
Commending the troops, Vice Admiral McCarty praised the high standards of professionalism, seamless integration among the three services and the unwavering commitment displayed by personnel of the Andaman and Nicobar Command. He highlighted that effective Tri-Service cooperation remains a key force multiplier in addressing both conventional and emerging security challenges in the maritime domain.
The visit reaffirmed the Andaman and Nicobar Command’s continued focus on maintaining a high state of operational readiness while strengthening jointness among the Army, Navy and Air Force. As India’s only integrated Tri-Service theatre command, the ANC plays a pivotal role in safeguarding the country’s strategic interests, monitoring critical sea lanes of communication and ensuring security across the eastern Indian Ocean.
Vice Admiral McCarty’s review underscores the importance of continuous operational preparedness, infrastructure modernisation and inter-service integration in reinforcing India’s defence posture and securing its southern maritime frontier.
