Use Russian-Origin N-Submarine to Full Potential, Indian Navy Told

http://www.defencenow.com/news/672/use-russian-origin-n-submarine-to-full-potential-indian-navy-told.html   Indian Navy has been asked to utilise INS Chakra, the newly-acquired nuclear-powered submarine from Russia, to its full potential and evolve operational concepts for its future nuclear submarine fleet.   India is preparing to induct its indigenous nuclear-powered submarine INS Arihant and its class of vessels over the next five to 10 years.   Defence Minister AK Antony, who inaugurated the navy commanders conference here, told them to also be vigilant in view of the emerging complex threat in the Indian Ocean region.   Commending the navy’s modernization programme, Antony said the induction of INS Chakra has "ushered in a new era" of submarine operations.   "It has placed us in a select group of navies that operate such a platform. We must ensure that ‘Chakra’ is utilized effectively to harness its real potential and also evolve operational concepts for future platforms,” he said.   Antony said the navy is on course to acquire potent platforms to add to its blue water capability.   "The induction of INS Vikramaditya in the near future, the potent MiG29Ks (naval combat aircraft) as well as P8-I long-range maritime reconnaissance aircraft would strengthen the navy further. Recently, the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA-Navy) made its successful maiden flight,” he said.   Describing the emerging security matrix in the Indian Ocean region as "really complex” with "some political developments” and worrisome factors, the Defence minister called upon the top brass of the Indian Navy to maintain high levels of preparedness at all times.   He said, "we have a well-established material and training assistance programme with Indian Ocean region countries for their capacity-building and enhancement.”   "Today, the security situation in our immediate neighborhood has become really complex. Considering the challenges in the Indian Ocean region, it is essential to maintain high levels of operational preparedness at all times. On the one hand, there are some political developments, and on the other hand, a number of other factors are a cause for worry and need to be factored into our preparations, both in the short-term and long-term,” he said.   The Defence minister said India’s strategic location in the Indian Ocean and the professional capability of our navy bestows upon us a natural ability to play a leading role in ensuring peace and stability in the Indian Ocean region.   "The security of maritime activity through the sea-lanes in Indian Ocean is of crucial importance for the economic prosperity of our nation and that of the world. The free movement of trade and energy supplies and various economic activities such as fishing and extraction of mineral resources is equally crucial for economic security," he added.   The Defence minister said the navy’s commitment to indigenization is a source of satisfaction. "This is amply borne by the fact that 44 out of 48 ships and submarines, presently on order, are being constructed in India. The navy has also maintained close liaison with Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and participated actively in research and development projects. However, this must not give rise to complacency. The public sector shipyards must speed up construction of warships and submarines and further modernize the infrastructure and technology of ship-production," he said.   Stressing on self-reliance in critical technology Antony said the navy and the DRDO need to put in more efforts to meet time lines. "This requires a synergy and active cooperation between the navy and all other concerned agencies. Such synergy is imperative for achieving self-reliance and ultimately reducing our dependence on foreign suppliers, particularly in areas of advanced technology" he said.