INS Dega expansion after Bhogapuram takes off: ENC chief

Visakhapatnam:The Eastern Naval Command’s air station INS Dega will go for massive expansion after commissioning of the Bhogapuram International Airport in Vizianagaram district, said Flag Officer, Commanding-In-Chief Vice Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar while talking to the media personnel in Visakhapatnam in connection with the Navy Day celebrations on Monday. At present, civilian aircrafts share the space with military aircrafts.

The Vice Admiral confirmed that Rafale aircraft will be inducted and stationed at INS Dega, alongside other aircraft based on the eastern seaboard and carrier-borne fighter jets. “We are certainly looking at expanding our assets and infrastructure. The space will be freed up for enhancing our infrastructure and accommodating more aircraft here,” he stated.

About plans for a third aircraft carrier, he mentioned that decisions are still pending, with the initial approval process currently underway. On artificial intelligence, Vice Admiral Pendharkar said the Navy is starting with basic applications and allowing individuals to explore AI’s potential uses. “We have begun with office processes and are progressing towards maritime domain awareness to create a common operational picture for everyone,” he noted.

Regarding drone technology, he emphasised that the Navy was very much alive to the kind of technological advances that have taken place around the world and the applications of equipment such as drones, in modern warfare, and is closely monitoring global technological advancements and integrating these developments into their capability enhancement plans. “We have already inducted several drones into our fleet, including surveillance drones, and quadcopters for monitoring our ships,” he added.

About aircraft carrier INS Vikrant induction in Eastern Naval Command and anchoring in Visakhapatnam, the Vice Admiral said the work on the naval outer harbour project was underway and after completion, INS Vikrant would be brought here. He also highlighted future initiatives for developing advanced underwater autonomous systems and enhancing surface vessels.