Article Posted on : - Mar 30, 2022

Adm R Hari Kumar, the Chief of the Naval Staff during the Indian Navys second P-8I aircraft squadron commissioning into the Indian Navy at INS Hansa, Goa, March 29, 2022. A PTI Photo

PANAJI (PTI):  Indian Naval Air Squadron 316, the Indian Navy's second P-8I aircraft squadron, was commissioned into the service in Goa on Tuesday in the presence of Chief of Naval Staff Admiral R Hari Kumar.

INAS 316 has been christened 'Condors', which are one of the largest flying land birds with a massive wingspan. The insignia of the squadron depicts a condor searching over the vast blue expanse of the sea, an official statement said.

The Navy said condors are known for excellent sensory capabilities, powerful and sharp talons and large massive wings symbolising the capabilities of the aircraft and envisaged roles of the squadron.

Addressing the gathering at INS Hansa, Admiral Kumar said India is the "preferred security partner" in the Indian Ocean region, which reflects the country's ability to play an effective strategic role in the region, and need to expand its operational reach.

The Indian Navy is integral to this commitment and in pursuance of this objective, commissioning of INAS 316 marked yet another milestone towards enhancing maritime security and surveillance in the Indian Ocean region, he said.

INAS 316 will operate the Boeing P-8I, a multi-role Long Range Maritime Reconnaissance Anti-Submarine Warfare (LRMR ASW) aircraft, that can be equipped with a range of air-to-ship missiles and torpedoes.

The 'Game Changer' aircraft is a potent platform for maritime surveillance and strike, electronic warfare missions, search and rescue, providing targeting data to weapon platforms, providing time-critical surveillance information for IA and IAF and is also the platform of choice for detecting and neutralising enemy ships and submarines in Indian Ocean region, the release said.

The squadron has been specifically commissioned to be the home for the four new P-8I aircraft procured under the Option Clause contract and to 'Deter, Detect and Destroy' any threat in the IOR. These aircraft have been operating from Hansa since December 30, 2021 and the squadron is integrated with full spectrum surface and subsurface Naval Operations.

INAS 316 is commanded by Commander Amit Mohapatra, an accomplished Boeing P-8I pilot with extensive operational experience. He has also flown maritime air platforms such as IL-38 and Dornier 228 and also Commanded INS Baratang as well as served as the Executive Officer of INS Tarkash.