Mumbai: The Indian Navy successfully conducted its Annual Refit Conference 24 (ARC 24) and Annual Infrastructure Conference 24 (AIC 24) on February 8-9, 2024, at Naval Dockyard, Mumbai, under the chairmanship of Vice Admiral Kiran Deshmukh, Chief of Materiel. The conferences aimed at discussing crucial aspects related to the refit plans of Indian Naval ships and submarines, infrastructure augmentation, materiel cooperation with friendly foreign countries, and the implementation of digital solutions to enhance maintenance processes.
Refit plans for Indian Naval ships and submarines were at the forefront of discussions, emphasizing the need for efficient maintenance strategies to ensure operational readiness. The augmentation of infrastructure to meet the maintenance requirements of newly inducted ships and submarines was also a key point of deliberation.
The conferences also addressed the importance of materiel cooperation with friendly foreign countries and the integration of digital solutions to improve maintenance efficiency. Delegates discussed foreseeable challenges in maintaining Indian Navy’s platforms and proposed solutions. The discussions also encompassed changes at the strategic level required to enhance the efficiency of refit and repair processes.
Vice Admiral Kiran Deshmukh, Chief of Materiel, commended all Naval Dockyards and Repair Yards for their efforts in enhancing the operational availability of naval assets. He emphasized the importance of logistics and maintenance organizations to embrace new technology and efficient work processes. Additionally, he highlighted the necessity for the modernization of marine assets and yard infrastructure.
During the AIC, the progress of various technical and marine infrastructure projects was reviewed. The Chief of Materiel stressed the need to develop ‘Future Ready’ repair and support infrastructure while modernizing existing facilities. He expressed satisfaction with the progress made in ongoing infrastructure projects and appreciated the completion of various initiatives, including the Wet Basin and Refit Jetty at Port Blair.
Vice Admiral Sanjay J Singh, the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief Western Naval Command, lauded the efforts of all concerned in ensuring enhanced operational availability of platforms. He emphasized the importance of maintaining focus on supporting heightened operational readiness, upskilling the workforce to develop expertise in new inductions, and paying attention to information security.
The conferences witnessed the participation of delegates from Naval Headquarters, the three Naval Commands, the Tri-Services Andaman and Nicobar Command, Director General Naval Projects, Naval Dockyards, Repair Yards, and Material Organizations of the Indian Navy, reflecting a comprehensive approach towards addressing the challenges and enhancing the operational capabilities of the Indian Navy.