More than 20 Naval ships and submarines, including the indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, along with a formidable array of air assets and elite Marine Commandos (MARCOS) presented a spectacular display of Naval strength and operational excellence.
Screengrab: X/@IndiannavyMedia
In a high-energy operational demonstration, the naval aviation and surface units presented a sweeping display of combat readiness, precision flying, and coordinated maritime operations to mark Navy Day at Shangumugham Beach, Thiruvananthapuram, on Wednesday.
More than 20 Naval ships and submarines, including the indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, along with a formidable array of air assets and elite Marine Commandos (MARCOS) presented a spectacular display of Naval strength and operational excellence.
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The event opened with a ceremonial MH-60R Salute Manoeuvre followed by the iconic Chetak Banner Formation, setting the tone for a tightly choreographed aerial showcase.
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Spectators were treated to a striking HK Bomb Burst, highlighting the agility of helicopter squadrons in combat-style dispersal patterns.
Maritime security operations took centre stage with a realistic VBSS (Visit, Board, Search, and Seizure) and Heli Insertion Demo, demonstrating rapid interdiction and tactical boarding techniques. This was followed by the launch of the Surface-to-Surface Missiles (SSM), underscoring the Navy’s precision-strike capability.
A coordinated Water Jet Fast Attack Craft and Fast Interceptor Craft demo provided insight into integrated fleet operations.
The scenario intensified with an enacted Oil Rig Explosion Special Tactical Intervention Exercise, showcasing rapid-response actions to offshore emergencies and hostile threats. Combat Manoeuvres further demonstrated helicopter versatility in close-range engagements.
Surface and aerial assets continued their display with an MK Launch and Overshoots sequence, followed by seamless Helo Landing/Take-Off Demonstrations and a dedicated Chetak Demo, reflecting operational proficiency across platforms.
A highlight of the op demo finale was a grand Composite Flypast, Submarine (S/M) Sail Past, and Ship-to-Ship (STS) Sail Past.
Addressing the gathering, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh Kumar Tripathi reminded that the day commemorates the Indian Navy’s “daring and decisive attacks” on and off Karachi during the 1971 war. “It is a moment to pay homage to our brave warriors whose courage and supreme sacrifice continue to inspire us,” he added.
Stating that Navy Day celebrations in recent years had been relocated outside New Delhi to reconnect with India’s maritime legacy, the CNS said, “Two years ago, we honoured Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj at Sindhudurg; last year, we celebrated the seafaring spirit of Kalinga at Puri. Holding the event in Kerala, he added, was fitting because its shores had spoken to the world for many centuries.”
The CNS said the Operational Demonstration offered citizens “a glimpse of the Navy’s discipline, precision and teamwork,” describing it as an effort to nurture maritime awareness across the nation.
As India moves toward becoming a Viksit Samriddha Bharat by 2047, the Admiral said the seas would play a “central role” in this journey.
Assuring the nation of the Navy’s commitment, he said it remained a “Combat Ready, Credible, Cohesive and Future Ready force,” prepared to safeguard India’s maritime interests “Anytime, Anywhere, Anyhow.”
The event culminated with a Beating Retreat by the Indian Naval band and a traditional sunset ceremony with illumination of Naval ships.
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