The Andaman & Nicobar Command (ANC) has welcomed a new batch of trainee officers from the Indian Navy at INS Kohassa, located on North Andaman Island. In a significant event marking the enhancement of naval capabilities and expertise, the trainee officers visited the Air Traffic Control (ATC) Tower and the Meteorological Office at the base, as announced by the ANC.
INS Kohassa, previously known as NAS Shibpur, was established in 2001 as a Forward Operating Air Base (FOAB) aimed at strengthening surveillance operations in North Andaman. The base has since undergone significant upgrades, including a runway extension to 3000 meters, which facilitates operations for both wide-bodied civil and defense aircraft. This was part of a broader initiative to enhance the operational scope of the station, which was renamed INS Kohassa following these developments in January 2019.
The trainee officers’ visit was part of their training curriculum to gain hands-on experience and enhance their knowledge in naval operations, particularly in air traffic control and meteorological assessments, which are crucial for maritime and aerial operations in the region. The Andaman & Nicobar Command’s post highlighted this visit with the hashtags #SVP, #ANC, and #ScholarWarriors, underscoring the educational and strategic importance of the visit.
This initiative aligns with the broader objectives of the Indian Navy, which emphasizes the development of ‘Scholar Warriors’ – a term coined by Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari, highlighting the blend of intellectual prowess and combat proficiency necessary in today’s complex security environment. The training at INS Kohassa is a step towards this goal, ensuring that the officers are well-prepared for the multifaceted challenges they will face.
The visit also resonates with the training ethos at INS Chilka, where basic training for Agniveers, including foundational knowledge and operational expertise, is imparted. The experiences at INS Kohassa provide these trainee officers with a practical understanding of their roles in national defense and maritime security operations, especially in strategic locations like the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, which are vital for India’s maritime surveillance and defense strategy.
This development marks a significant step in the continuous learning and development process of India’s naval forces, ensuring they remain at the forefront of operational readiness and strategic capability.
