A significant two-day seminar, titled “Long Range Maritime Reconnaissance (LRMR) Platforms: Strengthening Indian Maritime Prowess in an Expanding Area of Responsibility,” recently took place at INS Rajali in Arakkonam.
Organized by the Eastern Naval Command, the event, which concluded on a Wednesday, saw Rear Admiral Shantanu Jha, Chief Staff Officer (Operations) for the Eastern Naval Command, as its esteemed chief guest. His presence underscored the strategic importance of the discussions held.
During the seminar, a comprehensive compendium of articles was released. These articles offered profound insights into modern maritime surveillance techniques and delved into the evolving, critical role of Long-Range Maritime Reconnaissance platforms, such as the advanced P8I aircraft and High Altitude Long Endurance (HALE) Remotely Piloted Aircraft. These platforms are indispensable for protecting India’s vital maritime interests across the vast Indian Ocean Region and other strategic areas.
A notable highlight of the event was the commemoration of an extraordinary milestone: the Indian Navy’s leading LRMR Squadron, INAS 312, completed 50,000 hours of flying operations with the P8I aircraft. This achievement marks a significant chapter in the history of Indian Naval Aviation, demonstrating the squadron’s unwavering commitment to maintaining a vigilant watch over key maritime domains.
INS Rajali, strategically positioned on India’s Eastern Seaboard, serves as a crucial operational hub. Beyond the P8I aircraft, it also hosts HALE drones, including the MQ-9B Sea Guardian. This makes the base a pivotal center for sophisticated long-range maritime reconnaissance, effective anti-submarine warfare, and comprehensive surveillance operations across multiple domains, as detailed in an official press release.