In a strategic move aimed at bolstering its position in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), the Indian Navy is set to commission a new base, INS Jatayu, in the Minicoy Islands of Lakshadweep. This development underscores India’s commitment to enhancing maritime security and surveillance capabilities in critical waters.

According to defence officials, the Indian Navy will convene its commanders’ conference aboard the twin aircraft carriers, including INS Vikramaditya and the newly commissioned INS Vikrant.

During this conference, the Navy will conduct high-tempo operations, such as aircraft taking off from one carrier and landing on the other, showcasing the interoperability and agility of its carrier battle groups. The participation of other warships and submarines will further demonstrate the Navy’s integrated warfare capabilities.

Furthermore, the Indian Navy is set to formally commission the multirole helicopter MH-60 Romeo at Kochi in the upcoming week, marking a significant addition to its aerial fleet.

The induction of MH-60 Romeo helicopters, acquired from the United States under a government-to-government deal, will enhance the Navy’s anti-submarine warfare and maritime surveillance capabilities.

Highlighting upcoming infrastructural developments, officials disclosed plans for the inauguration of the naval war college buildings in Goa and facilities in Karwar around March 4.

These establishments will serve as vital hubs for training and operational planning, equipping the Navy with the necessary tools to address evolving security challenges effectively.

Providing insights into INS Jatayu, officials revealed that the base will initially be manned by a small contingent of officers and personnel but will undergo expansion in the future.

Situated approximately 50 miles from the Maldives, the base will serve as a strategic outpost, enabling surveillance of military and commercial activities in the region. Similar to INS Baaz in the Andaman Islands, INS Jatayu will possess capabilities crucial for safeguarding India’s interests in the Arabian Sea.

In a significant display of naval prowess, the Indian Navy will conduct twin carrier operations near Lakshadweep, showcasing its ability to deploy and coordinate operations with multiple aircraft carriers simultaneously.

This milestone event comes after the induction of INS Vikrant, reflecting India’s growing maritime capabilities and aspirations to emerge as a dominant naval power in the region.

The presence of both aircraft carriers during the Milin exercise in Vishakhapatnam earlier emphasized India’s expertise in manufacturing aircraft carriers, further solidifying its position as a reliable partner for global naval collaborations.

The commissioning of INS Jatayu and the forthcoming induction of MH-60 Romeo helicopters mark significant milestones in India’s quest for maritime security and dominance in the Indian Ocean Region, reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding national interests and promoting regional stability.

On February 29, 2024, the keel laying ceremony of the first Cadet Training Ship (Yard-18003) took place at M/s L&T Shipyard, Kattupalli, heralding a significant milestone in the Indian Navy’s indigenous shipbuilding initiative.

The ceremony was presided over by Rear Admiral Ravi Kumar Dhingra, Flag Officer Tamil Nadu and Puducherry Area, in the presence of Rear Admiral G K Harish, AVSM, VSM (Retd), Head Shipbuilding Business at L&T, and other senior officials from the Indian Navy and M/s L&T.

The contract for the indigenous design and construction of three Cadet Training Ships was finalized between the Ministry of Defence (MoD) and M/s L&T on March 7, 2023.

These Cadet Training Ships are intended to train officer cadets at sea following their basic training ashore. Additionally, they will provide training opportunities to cadets from friendly foreign countries.

This development underscores the Indian Navy’s commitment to indigenous shipbuilding and aligns with the Government of India’s vision of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ (Self-reliant India) and ‘Make in India’ initiatives.

By fostering domestic shipbuilding capabilities, the Indian Navy aims to reduce dependence on foreign imports and strengthen its self-reliance in maritime defence capabilities.

The keel laying ceremony represents the formal commencement of the ship’s construction, marking the laying of the ship’s structural foundation. It is a significant tradition in shipbuilding, symbolizing the start of a vessel’s journey from concept to completion.

The Cadet Training Ships will play a crucial role in enhancing the training infrastructure of the Indian Navy, enabling it to groom future naval officers and strengthen maritime security. Moreover, by extending training facilities to cadets from friendly foreign nations, India aims to foster international cooperation and goodwill in the maritime domain.

The successful execution of this indigenous shipbuilding project reaffirms India’s growing capabilities in naval technology and manufacturing. It reflects the nation’s commitment to innovation, self-sufficiency, and strategic autonomy in defence production.

As construction progresses on the Cadet Training Ship, the Indian Navy anticipates further milestones in its journey towards bolstering its maritime capabilities and advancing its shipbuilding capabilities in line with global standards.

On February 28, 2024, the Indian Naval Sailing Vessel (INSV) Tarini set sail from INS Mandovi, Goa, marking the commencement of a landmark expedition to Port Louis, Mauritius.

Organized under the auspices of the Indian Naval Sailing Association (INSA), this expedition represents a significant milestone in naval ocean sailing history, as it is the first-ever transoceanic voyage undertaken by Indian women in a double-handed mode.

Leading the historic voyage are Lt Cdr Dilna K and Lt Cdr Roopa A, exemplifying the prowess of Nari Shakti in the maritime domain.

Their journey aboard INSV Tarini not only underscores the exceptional skill and dedication of women personnel in the Indian Navy but also reflects the nation’s commitment to promoting gender equality and inclusivity in traditionally male-dominated fields.

This expedition serves as a vital component of the officers’ preparation for the upcoming circumnavigation of the globe, scheduled to commence later this year. Over the past two and a half years, the officers have undergone rigorous training and selection processes.

They have previously sailed from Goa to Mauritius and back in 2022, followed by an expedition from Goa to Rio De Janeiro via Cape Town and back last year. Subsequently, they undertook a sailing expedition from Goa to Port Blair and back in double-handed mode.

The current voyage marks their final consolidation expedition before embarking on the circumnavigation planned for September this year.

The expedition was flagged off by Commander Abhilash Tomy (Retd), KC, NM, a distinguished yachtsman who has circumnavigated the globe non-stop on sailing boats twice. Commander Tomy, who has been mentoring the two women officers for the past six months, expressed his pride in flagging off this monumental expedition.

He highlighted that the voyage symbolizes the spirit of adventure and resilience that defines the Indian Navy. Commander Tomy expressed full confidence in the capabilities of the two women officers and extended his best wishes for fair winds and smooth seas on their historic journey.

The transoceanic expedition of INSV Tarini signifies a significant stride forward in India’s maritime endeavors, showcasing the nation’s growing prominence in global maritime activities and advocating for gender equality on the high seas. It stands as a testament to the Indian Navy’s commitment to fostering excellence and diversity within its ranks.

INSV Tarini is expected to reach Port Louis, Mauritius, on March 20, 2024, marking the successful completion of this historic voyage.

In a significant development in India’s defence acquisition landscape, Spain has expressed its willingness to provide complete air-independent propulsion (AIP) technology for the stealth submarines it is building for the Indian Navy.

Under the $5.27 billion Project-75 India (P-75I), also known as the New Submarine Construction Programme, Spain’s state-owned defence giant Navantia aims to offer the submarines at a competitive price compared to other contenders, including Germany’s Thyssenkrupp.

As part of its commitment to the Indian government’s Make in India initiative, Navantia entered into a teaming agreement with Larsen and Toubro (L&T) in July last year to manufacture the submarines locally. Now, Spain is set to dispatch its top defence official, Secretary of State for Defence Amparo Valcarce, to India for discussions with Indian counterparts on March 7 and 8.

According to sources familiar with the matter, the primary agenda of Valcarce’s visit will be discussions on the procurement of six advanced stealth submarines equipped with the latest AIP technology.

Spain has asserted that its submarines offer the most competitive pricing despite featuring cutting-edge AIP technology. These submarines are intended to replace the Indian Navy’s aging fleet of 11 diesel-electric powered submarines, which were inducted in the 1990s.

The ongoing negotiations hold strategic significance for both countries, with officials expressing optimism about positive outcomes post the parliamentary elections. Although talks around the deal may face delays due to India’s upcoming general elections scheduled for mid-year, the discussions have been progressing well.

Earlier discussions during the visit of Spanish Deputy Prime Minister Teresa Ribera to India highlighted the importance of the submarine deal in bilateral relations. The Ministry of Defence’s proposal to build next-generation submarines with advanced AIP technology aims to enhance India’s maritime capabilities significantly.

Navantia’s offering includes S-80 submarines with a displacement of 3,000 tonnes and a proven AIP system. The company is also considering exporting these submarines from India to other nations in the future, reflecting its long-term commitment to strategic partnerships in the region.

Navantia’s prior experience in India, including its involvement in the co-design and technology transfer for the Scorpene submarines built by Mazagon Dock Ltd., underscores its expertise and track record in collaborating with Indian defence entities.

With Spain’s offer of complete AIP technology transfer, the Indian Navy stands to gain access to cutting-edge capabilities, further strengthening India’s defence preparedness and self-reliance in naval operations.

In a heartwarming ceremony that bridged the realms of sports and military honor, Admiral R Hari Kumar, Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), extended a special tribute to Mrs. Baig, the wife of Indian Navy veteran and renowned cricket coach M.R. Baig.

The felicitation took place in the distinguished presence of cricketing icons VVS Laxman and M.S.K Prasad, adding an extra layer of prestige to the event. As a fitting tribute to Baig’s illustrious career and lasting impact on Indian cricket, a book chronicling his life journey, titled “M.R. Baig – The Unsung Coach of Indian Cricket,” was unveiled by the CNS himself.

The ceremony, held on [date], served as a poignant recognition of Baig’s invaluable contributions to both the Indian Navy and the realm of cricket coaching. Mrs. Baig, representing her husband’s legacy, was honored for her unwavering support and sacrifices, which played an integral role in Baig’s journey as a cricket coach and a proud serviceman of the Indian Navy.

Admiral R Hari Kumar, in his address, lauded Baig’s exceptional commitment and dedication, highlighting his role not only as a cricket coach but also as a beacon of inspiration for countless individuals.

He underscored the significance of Baig’s dual identity as a Navy veteran and a legendary cricket coach, emphasizing the values of discipline, teamwork, and leadership that epitomized Baig’s ethos.

The presence of cricketing stalwarts VVS Laxman and M.S.K Prasad added a touch of star power to the event, symbolizing the widespread respect and admiration for Baig’s coaching acumen and mentorship.

Their participation underscored the profound impact Baig had on shaping the careers of aspiring cricketers and instilling in them the values of sportsmanship and perseverance.

The highlight of the ceremony was the unveiling of “M.R. Baig – The Unsung Coach of Indian Cricket,” a meticulously crafted tribute to Baig’s life and legacy. Authored by Cdr Y Hemanth Kumar, the book offers a compelling narrative that chronicles Baig’s journey from his early days in the Indian Navy to his remarkable tenure as a cricket coach.

It provides a rare glimpse into the untold stories and behind-the-scenes anecdotes that define Baig’s unparalleled contribution to Indian cricket.

The felicitation ceremony served as a poignant reminder of the profound impact individuals like M.R. Baig can have on shaping the trajectory of sports and inspiring future generations.

As the Indian Navy Chief and esteemed cricketing legends came together to honor his memory, it was a testament to the enduring legacy of Baig’s passion, dedication, and indomitable spirit.