VASCO
In a display of inter-service collaboration and environmental commitment, a joint scuba diving expedition between the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) concluded on Thursday with a ceremonial flag-in by Air Vice Marshal Manish Khullar, ACAS (Org & Cer), in Goa.
The week-long venture, titled ‘Forging Bonds Beneath the Waves’, showcased the growing operational synergy, camaraderie and adventurous spirit shared between the two forces.
The expedition had been flagged off on October 8 by DIG Manoj Bhatia, Commander, Coast Guard Goa Area, as ICGS Sujeet sailed out from Goa carrying a team of 20 divers — 10 each from the IAF and the ICG.
The team conducted dives at Angria Bank, a pristine and ecologically rich underwater plateau and sunken coral atoll situated around 70 nautical miles west of Vijaydurg, Maharashtra. The site, named after the legendary Maratha naval commander Kanhoji Angre, served as the perfect setting for this unique inter-service adventure.
Beyond its environmental and exploratory aspects, the expedition provided a practical platform to refine joint diving protocols, improve interoperability, and strengthen mutual understanding among personnel.
The event culminated with a symbolic underwater flag-in ceremony, reaffirming the collective commitment of both forces towards marine conservation and the spirit of jointmanship.
