Rajnath to address top Navy brass meet today

Defence minister Rajnath Singh will witness India’s two aircraft carriers — INS Vikramaditya and INS Vikrant — in action on the western seaboard during the naval commanders' conference, which is starting from Tuesday as the Navy's takes greater role in the Indian Ocean Region. During the threeday conference, which is being held on board one of the two aircraft carriers, Navy’s top commanders will discuss the ongoing attack by the Houthis rebels in the Red Sea and Chinese Navy's growing presence in the region. Last year, too, the conference was held in March on board aircraft carrier INS Vikrant.

“The inaugural session of the conference will have the defence minister embarking at sea to witness both the aircraft carriers demonstrating the Navy’s ability to conduct ‘twin carrier operations’,” the Navy said.

This is a significant week for the Navy as it will commission a new naval base in Minicoy Island at Lakshadweep on Wednesday. The same day it will also commission the newly-inducted MH 60R Seahawk (a maritime variant of Blackhawk helicopter) multi-role helicopter at naval air station INS Garuda, Kochi. The meet, an annual event of paramount importance, serves as a platform for naval commanders to deliberate on strategic, operational and administrative matters concerning maritime security.

“Held against the backdrop of evolving geopolitical dynamics, regional challenges and the current volatile maritime security situation in the region, the conference plays a pivotal role in shaping the future course of the Indian Navy,” the Navy said.