Captain Sumit Malik took over the command of INS Parundu, Naval Air Station Ramnad, from Captain Arjun Menon on 04 June 2026. A ceremonial parade was held to mark the formal change of command at the Navy’s premier air station on the Eastern Seaboard.
Captain Sumit Malik, a Qualified Naval Air Operations Officer, assumed charge as the 11th Commanding Officer of INS Parundu. His appointment marks a new chapter for the strategically important naval air station, which plays a key role in supporting Indian Navy operations in the region.
INS Parundu, located at Ramnad in Tamil Nadu, is one of the important naval aviation establishments of the Indian Navy. The air station supports maritime surveillance, operational readiness and air operations along the Eastern Seaboard.
The change of command ceremony reflected the naval tradition of continuity, professionalism and responsibility. During the ceremonial parade, Captain Arjun Menon formally handed over charge to Captain Sumit Malik in the presence of officers, sailors and personnel of the station.
As the new Commanding Officer, Capt Sumit Malik will be responsible for maintaining the operational efficiency, administrative functioning and mission readiness of INS Parundu.
The appointment of a Qualified Naval Air Operations Officer to lead the station highlights the importance of specialised aviation expertise in managing complex naval air operations.
INS Parundu continues to remain an important pillar of the Indian Navy’s aviation network, contributing to maritime security, coastal surveillance and operational support on the Eastern Seaboard.
