Article Posted on : - Sep 16, 2012

The Russian-built aircraft carrier is set to be inducted into the Indian Navy as INS Vikramaditya. A file photo

KOCHI (PTI): Indian Navy needs to consolidate its capabilities continuously and "re-order" its preparations and training, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral D K Joshi has said.

Admiral Joshi, who recently took over as Naval Chief, arrived at the Southern Naval command here on Saturday to flag off INS Sudarshini on its ASEAN Expedition 2012-13.

He told reporters that his first task was consolidation.

"Well essentially my first task is consolidation. As you see newer technologies in all its dimensions are being inducted by the Navy. We have recently transited from the conventional to the nuclear domain," he said.

INS Vikramaditya, the new aircraft carrier, will come with its MIG 29K aircraft that will bring to the table capabilities of an integral fighter aircraft that the Indian Navy had never before. Then, the navy is also inducting the P8I Boeing (maritime surveillance aircraft).

"So, essentially we need to consolidate continuously and re-order our preparations, our training, our organisation and our maintenance structure to ensure that upon induction all these platforms and technologies are available for optimum utilisation and it is a big task and we are on it," he said.

On the induction of the first Indigenously developed aircraft carrier being built at the Cochin Shipyard, he said he had been to the shipyard and held discussions with shipyard Chairman and Managing Director.

"There are some delays... CSL CMD informed that the delays are behind them. Firm timelines are set."

The whole nation is waiting for the induction of the aircraft carrier, he said, adding, he was certain that the shipyard would put their best efforts to complete it on time.

"Not many countries in the world make their own aircraft carriers and CSL is entirely cognisant of it and is working towards (it)," he said.