Navy commissions weapon storage facility INS Vajrakosh in Karwar

 

Indian Navy on Wednesday added another critical installation under its command with the commissioning of INS Vajrakosh at Karwar. Navy said the commissioning of INS Vajrakosh, the third naval establishment in Karwar, will bolster the offensive and defensive capabilities of its platforms.

"Naval units operating out of Karwar are required to be equipped with specialized armaments and missiles. They require special storage and servicing facilities. INS Vajrakosh is manned by specialists to meet these requirements," Navy Spokesperson Capt D K Sharma said.

During the rain-soaked commissioning ceremony, Captain Arvind Chari, Commanding Officer, read out the Commissioning Warrant and the Naval ensign was hoisted while the Naval band played the National Anthem.

Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar who spoke on the occasion stressed on the need to have a strong and modern Navy for a maritime nation like India. He said the commissioning of INS Vajrakosh has marked the successful completion of a complex and modern project. He asked the crew to ensure that the missiles in Vajrakosh remain ever ready for operational deployment. Parrikar got a glimpse of the massive complex and was briefed on the future expansion plans. Navy is planning to have an air station and housing complex here. The minister also witnessed the loading of a missile on to ‪‎INS Teg‬. He was also shown the modern ship-lift facility for refits and repairs of warships.

Fishermen who saved Dornier pilot felicitated In a great gesture, Parrikar also felicitated the fishermen who were instrumental in saving the unconscious pilot of Dornier (DO 240) aircraft which had crashed off Goa on Marrch 24, this year.

"Cdr NikhilJoshi, the lone survivor of the unfortunate accident, is alive today because of the alacrity and the timely help extended by the fishermen community that night," the naval Spokesperson added. Navy Chief Admiral R K Dhowan said that Karwar is poised to emerge as the Indian Navy's most significant base on the Western seaboard. "Karwar has some of the most significant naval assets already in service or being inducted. With the ongoing expansion of the Indian Navy, there has been increase in the number of ships, submarines and aircraft equipped with specialized armament and missiles. These need to be stowed and maintained in the best possible manner throughout their service life," Dhowan said. 

 

OneIndia