VASCO
Indian Naval Air Squadron 316, the Indian Navy's second P-8I aircraft squadron was commissioned into the Indian Navy on Tuesday. The impressive ceremony was conducted at INS Hansa.
Naval press note stated that Chief of Naval Staff Admiral R Hari Kumar was the Chief Guest for the event.
Addressing the gathering at INS Hansa, Admiral Kumar said that India is the 'Preferred Security Partner' in the Indian Ocean region which reflects the country's ability to play an effective strategic role in the region, and the need to expand its operational reach.
"The Indian Navy is integral to this commitment and in pursuance of this objective, commissioning of INAS 316 marked yet another milestone towards enhancing maritime security and surveillance in the Indian Ocean Region."
"INAS 316 has been christened ‘Condors’ which are one of the largest flying land birds with a massive wingspan. The insignia of the squadron depicts a 'Condor' searching over the vast blue expanse of the sea. ‘Condors’ are known for excellent sensory capabilities, powerful and sharp talons and large massive wings symbolising the capabilities of the aircraft and envisaged roles of the squadron."
"INAS 316 will operate the Boeing P-8I aircraft, a multi-role Long Range Maritime Reconnaissance Anti-Submarine Warfare (LRMR ASW) aircraft, that can be equipped with a range of Air-to-Ship Missiles and Torpedoes."
"The 'Game Changer' aircraft is a potent platform for Maritime Surveillance and strike, Electronic warfare missions, Search and Rescue, providing targeting data to weapon platforms, providing time-critical surveillance information for IA and IAF and is also the platform of choice for detecting and neutralising enemy ships and submarines in Indian Ocean region," stated the press release.
