The naval might of the country has been highlighted in the ongoing Exercise called TROPEX-2012 in Vishakapatnam and it was witnessed by Defence Mininster A.K.Antony, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Nirmal Verma and the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief (Eastern Naval Command) Vice Admiral AK Chopra. The widespread capabilities of the Indian Navy were demonstrated successfully with two completely networked fleets scattered across the Indian Ocean whilst operating in a dense electronic environment to match their skills. TROPEX-2012 showcased new platforms, weapons sensors, communication systems and an array of tactical and network-centric capabilities.
TROPEX-2012, which stands for Theatre-level Readiness and Operational Exercise, conducted its network-centric exercise off the Southern coast in cooperation with the Indian Air Force (IAF) in its annual exercise. In TROPEX-2012, about forty surface combatants of various classes, submarines and a large number of aircraft including UAVs will showcase their worth. The IAF contributed to the TROPEX-2012 with its fighter planes like Sukhoi, Mirage and Jaguar.
TOPEX-2012 was held in two phases alternating between night and day while the navy and the air force performed simultaneously. TROPEX-2012 has been a pivotal feature to gauge the air defence capability of the country like never before. The exercise will continue off the Southern Coast in the Indian Ocean for a few more days. The current and new acquisitions in the naval fleet will showcase how the net combat power of the fleets will be optimized to ward-off threats and heighten combat ability.
In his statement after witnessing the TROPEX-2012, Defence Minister Antony complimented the professionalism and exceptional maritime abilities of the Indian Navy coupled with the might of the IAF. Antony added that the need for increasing naval capabilities is paramount as the country is needs critical maritime security. He was impressed with the quick integration of new ships for operations and training as well Indian Navy’s sound maintenance practices and technical prowess.
Defence Minister witnessed the capabilities of the stealth frigate INS Shivalik and INS Shakti while an air power demonstration by aircraft carrier INS Viraat was also successfully displayed. Added to this, a professional mid-sea execution of a combat free-fall technique by Marine Commandoes (MARCOS) on the flight deck was also showcased. Antony also watched the successful interception of a fast, low-flying surface-to-surface missile by a surface-to-air missile in night phase of the exercise. The Navy showed the ability of upgraded Sea Harriers which included extended range through mid-air refueling and beyond-visual-range missiles. The launch of BrahMos supersonic long-range anti-ship missile from a recently upgraded Ranvir class destroyer was also conducted. |