Indian Navy will Act As a 'Net Security Provider' in the Indian Ocean

As we surge ahead in the 21st century, the attention of the entire world is focused on the Indian Ocean Region, where our Navy is increasingly seen as a ‘net security provider' said Indian Navy Chief Admiral Sunil Lanba today, addressing at the Navy Day Press Conference.

To add strength to the capability, Indian Navy is also gearing up at inducting 56 warships and submarines, Chief of Naval Staff announced today. "Govt approval has also been accorded for 56 Ships and six submarines," said Admiral Lanba  

In addition to that, 32 ships and submarines are presently under construction in Indian shipyards. These include the Aircraft Carrier, Vikrant, P-15B Class Destroyers, P17A class stealth Frigates, P28 ASW Corvettes, Offshore Patrol Vessels and Scorpene class submarines, he elaborated 

Focusing on the 'Make in India' thrust, Indigenous Aircraft Carrier is presently in its third and final Phase of construction at Kochi. "The Sea trials for the ship are expected to commence mid 2020 and we are closely working with all stakeholders to achieve the delivery timelines, he added. Induction of Vikrant will provide significant fillip to the Navy’s blue water capability, increasing the reach and impact of Carrier borne strike forces, both as a means of deterrence as well as during combat operations, he said.

He also conveyed that naval version of LCA produced by HAL would fly from its deck.

On the aviation front, a long standing critical shortfall in the naval helicopter fleet has been finally addressed with the accord of AoN for 111 Utility Helicopters in August this year And issue of LOR (Letter of Request) for 24 Multi Role Helicopters last month he said. . "We are working at timely realization of these projects," Admiral Lanba added..