Chief of Naval Staff Adm R Hari Kumar’s Visit to Andaman and Nicobar Command Highlights Maritime Capabilities

Port Blair:  Admiral R Hari Kumar, Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), accompanied by Mrs Kala Hari Kumar, President of the Naval Wives Welfare Association (NWWA), undertook a comprehensive visit to the Andaman and Nicobar Command (ANC) from February 6 to February 9, 2024. The distinguished guests were warmly received in Port Blair by Air Marshal Saju Balakrishnan, Commander-in-Chief, Andaman & Nicobar Command (CINCAN), and Mrs Latha Saju, President of the Defence Wives Welfare Association (DWWA) in the A&N Region.

During the visit, CNS Adm R Hari Kumar was briefed at the ANC headquarters on the crucial role and significance of India’s only operational Joint Services Command. CINCAN highlighted the geo-strategic potential of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, emphasizing ANC’s role in supporting military operations and contributing to the ‘Act East’ Policy.

Adm R Hari Kumar also laid the foundation stone for sailors’ accommodation at Vijay Baugh, a significant development in the presence of CINCAN and senior leadership of HQ ANC. Additionally, he inaugurated the Precision Approach Radar (PAR) at INS Utkrosh, a facility designed to provide highly accurate horizontal and vertical guidance for safe aircraft landings in challenging weather conditions such as heavy rain and fog.

Furthermore, the CNS inaugurated the Integrated Underwater Harbour Defence and Surveillance System (IUHDSS) at Naval Jetty, Port Blair, reinforcing the security of the Port Blair harbor.

During his visit to ANC units in the Northern and Southern Group of Islands, Adm R Hari Kumar inaugurated Naval Communication Network (NCN) Centres at INS Kohassa, INS Baaz, and INS Kardip. These centres are poised to significantly enhance communication and operational capabilities within ANC, fostering real-time situational awareness and jointness in communication.

Interacting with personnel stationed across the Command, Adm R Hari Kumar acknowledged their significant contributions to maritime security in ANC, commending their efforts in safeguarding national interests.

Mrs Kala Hari Kumar, President of NWWA, engaged with the ladies of ANC during a special DWWA Diwas, and visited the NWWA Kendra. She also inaugurated the VC facility ‘Saksham’ at Navy Children School, Port Blair, furthering the commitment to providing enhanced educational facilities for the naval community.

The visit of the Chief of the Naval Staff underscored the strategic importance of ANC and the commitment to bolstering maritime capabilities in the region.