Article Posted on : - Jan 25, 2010

The Indian Navy displays a naval fleet exercise at the Bay of Bengal in Chennai on Sunday. PTI Photo

CHENNAI (PTI): The Eastern Navy Command has unveiled plans to enhance coastal security in the aftermath of 26/11 attacks, including augmenting its fleet of fast attack craft.

"This year we have commissioned six new fast attack craft which can attain a speed of 70 km/h. We plan to commission 50-60 intermediate and small fast attack craft which will be deployed at various ports along the eastern and western coastal areas of the country," Rear Admiral P Murugesan, Flag Officer Commanding, Eastern Fleet, told reporters Sunday on board INS Jalashwa.

When asked on 'aging' ships in the Indian Navy, he said all navy ships are well maintained on a regular basis.

"Every year we constantly maintain and upgrade ships and its accessories. Everything is new including weapons, radars and communication equipment," he said, adding "Indian Navy is ready for action of any kind."

On the status of India's nuclear submarine INS Arihant, he said work was still on and very soon sea trials would be undertaken.

He said the Indian Navy also has the responsibility in safeguarding merchant ships since 90 per cent of India's export and import is through sea route.

Earlier, Indian naval ships 'Rajput', 'Ranjit', 'Rana', 'Jalashwa,' 'Kulish', 'Nirbhik' and 'Nishank' called on at the Chennai port.

The ships hosted the families of local naval personnel and members of the media for a day at sea where they witnessed a range of naval operations.