'Indian Navy on its way to become world class force'

The Indian Navy is well on its way to be a potent world class force, whose strength will be augmented by 46 ships and submarines being added to its fleet this year, the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Naval Command, said today.

Addressing naval officers and civilians after unfurling the national flag on the 66th Independence Day, Vice-Admiral Anil Chopra said the year gone by saw the Eastern Naval Command add stealth frigates, a nuclear powered submarine and an unmanned aerial vehicle squadron to its arsenal.

Now it has planned to include 46 more ships and submarines and a large number of aviation assets.

In the near future, the Command will be home to additional strategic platforms, anti-submarine corvettes, P8i long range maritime reconnaissance aircrafts, MiG 29K fighter jets and advanced jet trainers, he said.

The Command has remained in the forefront with the Eastern Fleet leaving footprints all across the Indian Ocean region -- from the Gulf of Aden to the West Pacific, he said.

On the occasion, he urged all those present to stand up to the security challenges faced by the nation.

A ceremonial parade was also held at the Eastern Naval Command parade ground where the Vice-Admiral took the salute.