Chennai boasts of a rich maritime heritage and nautical connections

S Vishnu Sharmaa, INN/Chennai, @Svs037

Chennai boasts of a rich maritime heritage and nautical connections, said Admiral Karambir Singh. Chief of Indian Naval staff stressed on strong relationship between city of Chennai and Indian Navy while commissioning Indian Naval Dornier Aircraft squadron (INAS 313) in Chennai on Monday (July 22).

‘Both of them have had a close symbiotic relationship.’ Chennai boasts of a rich maritime heritage and nautical connections, said Admiral Karambir Singh.  Overlooking the Bay of Bengal and the sea lines of communications which are among the busiest in the world, the city is a natural focal point for developing maritime awarness on India’s southern flank, he said. 

The rich marine biodiversity, resources and maritime activities along the coast of Tamilnadu also underscore the need of constant surveillance in the region, said Chief of Naval Staff.

Indian Navy, as the primary instrument of the country’s maritime power, has a pivotal role in safeguarding India’s interests in maritime domain. Towards this, a need was felt to create an operational base in Chennai to enable better surveillance in the region, he said. 

Dornier aircraft squadron at INAS 313 would provide significant maritime surveillance capability and would contribute to enhanced domain awareness. This would also enable faster response to emerging challenges at sea.

The squadron would help augment the coastal security apparatus in conjunction with Indian Coast Guard as also to enable monitoring of shipping in the region. The squadron would thus support the Navy’s aim of creating a safe and secure maritime environment for national prosperity, he said.