INAS 313: 5th Dornier aircraft squadron commissioned into Indian Navy

Indian Naval Air Squadron (INAS) 313, the 5th Dornier Aircraft Squadron was commissioned into Indian Navy at Naval Air Enclave, Meenambakkam, Chennai. The INAS 313 has been named as ‘Sea Eagle.’ It is commanded by Cdr Vivek Koman, experienced Dornier test pilot with extensive operational experience.

About INAS 313

It derives its name Sea Eagle from bird of prey family Accipitridae. The insignia (emblem) of squadron depicts- Greater Spotted Eagle searching over vast blue and White Sea waves, which symbolises the envisaged role of squadron.

Operational: It will be operating from Chennai International Airport. With commissioning of INAS 313, Tamil Nadu will now have 3 naval air bases, which is highest number for any Coastal State. Other two air bases in Tamil Nadu are INS Rajali at Arakkonam and INS Parundu at Ramnad.

Dornier aircraft: Squadron will operate Dornier aircraft. It is a multi-role Short Range Maritime Reconnaissance (SRMR) aircraft manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), under license from RUAG Aerospace. Dornier is used for maritime surveillance, Search and Rescue Operations and to provide targeting data to weapon platforms.

Significance

Commissioning of INAS 313 marks another milestone in Indian Navy’s efforts towards enhancing maritime security and safeguarding nation’s maritime interests.

To maintain an edge over its adversaries in defence preparedness India needs to be constantly monitor developing geo-political situation in the region and thus it is necessary to maintain surveillance over Bay of Bengal, Palk Bay and adjoining regions.

The strategic position of squadron will give India dominance over North Eastern part of Indian Ocean which also consists of trade routes.

Month: Current Affairs - July, 2019