In The Indian Ocean Region, India Is The Preferred Security Partner: R Hari Kumar, Navy Chief

In the presence of Chief of Naval Staff Admiral R Hari Kumar, the Indian Navy commissioned its second P-8I aircraft squadron in Goa on Tuesday. INAS 316 has been given the name ‘Condors,’ after one of the world’s largest flying land birds.

Admiral Kumar told the crowd at INS Hansa that India is the area’s “preferred security partner,” reflecting the country’s ability to play an effective strategic role in the region and the need to expand its operational reach.

“The Indian Naval is a vital part of this commitment, and the commissioning of INAS 316 marks yet another milestone in the Indian Ocean Region’s maritime security and surveillance,” the navy chief said.

The Boeing P-8I, a multi-role Long Range Maritime Reconnaissance Anti-Submarine Warfare (LRMR ASW) aircraft, will be operated by INAS 316. The squadron has been assigned to house the four new P-8I aircraft that were purchased from the United States.