Vellore: The Indian Navy is all set to de-induct the TU142M Long Range Maritime Patrol aircraft on Wednesday, after its 29 years of dedicated service to the nation. Admiral Sunil Lanba, PVSM, AVSM, ADC, chief of Naval Staff, would de-induct the aircraft at a special ceremony held at INS Rajali, Arakkonam.
To commemorate the stellar service of the TU142M, the Chief of Naval staff would also inaugurate the TU Static Display Aircraft here. Inducted into Indian Navy at Dabolim Goa from erstwhile USSR in 1988, TU142M Long Range Maritime Patrol aircraft was shifted permanently to INS Rajali in 1992 and became the most formidable LRMR ASW aircraft of the Indian Navy.
The aircraft saw action during Operation Cactus in Maldives and participated in operational missions off Sri Lanka to provide airborne surveillance. TU142M aircraft with its 04 powerful engines, contra rotating, slender fuselage and swept wings is the fastest turboprop aircraft in the world and reportedly has been difficult to intercept by fighters, stated a press release.
With its enhanced endurance, speed, long-range weapons and sensors the aircraft transformed the aspects of Maritime Reconnaissance and airborne ASW for the Indian Navy and was one of the most formidable platforms around the world. The role of TU142M will now be taken on by the newly inducted P-8l aircraft.
