How Indian Navy's INS Kora destroys target in Bay of Bengal with anti-ship missile

The Indian Navy operationalized the first batch of women pilots of Dornier Aircraft by the Southern Naval Command (SNC) at Kochi. The three women pilots were part of the six pilots belonging to the 27th Dornier Operational Flying Training (DOFT) Course, who graduated as ‘Fully operational Maritime Reconnaissance (MR) Pilots at a passing out ceremony held at INS Garuda, on Thursday.&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/women-pilots-take-to-the-skies-on-indian-navy-dornier-aircraft-337185/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Lieutenants Divya Sharma, from New Delhi, Shubhangi Swaroop from Uttar Pradesh and Shivangi from Bihar are the three women pilots of the first batch. They had initially undergone basic flying training partly with Indian Air Force and partly with the Navy prior to DOFT course. Amongst the three women pilots operationalized for MR flying, Lt Shivangi was the first to qualify as a naval pilot on 02 Dec 2019.

Their course comprised of one month of the ground training phase, which was conducted at various professional schools of SNC and eight months of flying training at the Dornier Squadron of SNC, INAS 550.&nbsp;

Rear Admiral Antony George, VSM, NM, Chief Staff Officer (Training) of SNC was the chief guest of the event and presented awards to the pilots who are now fully qualified on Dornier aircraft for all operational missions.

Lt Divya Sharma &amp; Lt Shivam Pandey were adjudged ‘First in Flying’ and ‘First in Ground’ subjects, respectively. The Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief (South) rolling trophy in memory of late Lt Simon George Pynomootil for the ‘Most spirited trainee’ was presented to Lt Kumar Vikram. This trophy was instituted on 18 Jun 2019 during the Diamond Jubilee Celebration of INAS 550 to immortalize the spirit of the officer who was a qualified Islander pilot and lost his life in a fatal air crash whilst serving the squadron on 17 May 1985.

The Indian Navy operationalized the first batch of women pilots of Dornier Aircraft by the Southern Naval Command (SNC) at Kochi. The three women pilots were part of the six pilots belonging to the 27th Dornier Operational Flying Training (DOFT) Course, who graduated as ‘Fully operational Maritime Reconnaissance (MR) Pilots at a passing out ceremony held at INS Garuda, on Thursday.

The Indian Navy operationalized the first batch of women pilots of Dornier Aircraft by the Southern Naval Command (SNC) at Kochi. The three women pilots were part of the six pilots belonging to the 27th Dornier Operational Flying Training (DOFT) Course, who graduated as ‘Fully operational Maritime Reconnaissance (MR) Pilots at a passing out ceremony held at INS Garuda, on Thursday. Lieutenants Divya Sharma, from New Delhi, Shubhangi Swaroop from Uttar Pradesh and Shivangi from Bihar are the three women pilots of the first batch. They had initially undergone basic flying training partly with Indian Air Force and partly with the Navy prior to DOFT course. Amongst the three women pilots operationalized for MR flying, Lt Shivangi was the first to qualify as a naval pilot on 02 Dec 2019. Their course comprised of one month of the ground training phase, which was conducted at various professional schools of SNC and eight months of flying training at the Dornier Squadron of SNC, INAS 550. Rear Admiral Antony George, VSM, NM, Chief Staff Officer (Training) of SNC was the chief guest of the event and presented awards to the pilots who are now fully qualified on Dornier aircraft for all operational missions. Lt Divya Sharma & Lt Shivam Pandey were adjudged ‘First in Flying’ and ‘First in Ground’ subjects, respectively. The Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief (South) rolling trophy in memory of late Lt Simon George Pynomootil for the ‘Most spirited trainee’ was presented to Lt Kumar Vikram. This trophy was instituted on 18 Jun 2019 during the Diamond Jubilee Celebration of INAS 550 to immortalize the spirit of the officer who was a qualified Islander pilot and lost his life in a fatal air crash whilst serving the squadron on 17 May 1985.

Indian Navy's first batch of women pilots soar high on Dornier aircraft

Women Pilots take to the skies on Indian Navy Dornier Aircraft

The navies of India and Sri Lanka will conduct a three-day military exercise off Trincomalee beginning Monday, in a show of growing congruence in their strategic interests and operational convergence in the region, officials said.

The eighth edition of the annual SLINEX exercise will feature a series of complex drills including surface and anti-air weapon firings and cross deck flying operations with an aim to further fine-tune the "high degree" of inter-operability between the two navies, they said.

The Indian Navy will deploy anti-submarine warfare corvettes INS Kamorta and INS Kiltan as well as a sizeable number of advanced light helicopters, Chetak helicopter and Dornier maritime patrol aircraft in the exercise, the officials said.

The Sri Lanka Navy will be represented by offshore patrol vessel Sayura and training ship Gajabahu.

The previous edition of SLINEX was conducted off Visakhapatnam in September 2019.

"SLINEX series of exercise exemplifies the deep engagement between India and Sri Lanka which has strengthened mutual cooperation in the maritime domain," an Indian Navy spokesperson said.

"Interaction between the two navies has also grown significantly in recent years, in consonance with India's policy of ?Neighbourhood First' and the prime minister's vision of Security and Growth for all in the Region (SAGAR)," he said.

The Indian Navy has participated in a number of joint maritime exercises in the last few weeks including a three-day drill with Japanese navy from September 26-28.

Last month, Indian Navy also carried out a two-day mega exercise in the Indian Ocean Region with the Australian Navy that featured a range of complex naval manoeuvres, anti-aircraft drills and helicopter operations.

In July, the Indian Navy carried out a military exercise with a US Navy carrier strike group led by the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Nimitz off the coast of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The USS Nimitz is the world's largest warship.

India has significantly expanded its deployment in the Indian Ocean Region with a plethora of warships and submarines following its border row with China in eastern Ladakh, ostensibly to send across a message to Beijing.&nbsp;

The navies of India and Sri Lanka will conduct a three-day military exercise off Trincomalee beginning Monday, in a show of growing congruence in their strategic interests and operational convergence in the region, officials said.

The navies of India and Sri Lanka will conduct a three-day military exercise off Trincomalee beginning Monday, in a show of growing congruence in their strategic interests and operational convergence in the region, officials said. The eighth edition of the annual SLINEX exercise will feature a series of complex drills including surface and anti-air weapon firings and cross deck flying operations with an aim to further fine-tune the "high degree" of inter-operability between the two navies, they said. The Indian Navy will deploy anti-submarine warfare corvettes INS Kamorta and INS Kiltan as well as a sizeable number of advanced light helicopters, Chetak helicopter and Dornier maritime patrol aircraft in the exercise, the officials said. The Sri Lanka Navy will be represented by offshore patrol vessel Sayura and training ship Gajabahu. The previous edition of SLINEX was conducted off Visakhapatnam in September 2019. "SLINEX series of exercise exemplifies the deep engagement between India and Sri Lanka which has strengthened mutual cooperation in the maritime domain," an Indian Navy spokesperson said. "Interaction between the two navies has also grown significantly in recent years, in consonance with India's policy of ?Neighbourhood First' and the prime minister's vision of Security and Growth for all in the Region (SAGAR)," he said. The Indian Navy has participated in a number of joint maritime exercises in the last few weeks including a three-day drill with Japanese navy from September 26-28. Last month, Indian Navy also carried out a two-day mega exercise in the Indian Ocean Region with the Australian Navy that featured a range of complex naval manoeuvres, anti-aircraft drills and helicopter operations. In July, the Indian Navy carried out a military exercise with a US Navy carrier strike group led by the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Nimitz off the coast of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The USS Nimitz is the world's largest warship. India has significantly expanded its deployment in the Indian Ocean Region with a plethora of warships and submarines following its border row with China in eastern Ladakh, ostensibly to send across a message to Beijing.

Indian and Sri Lankan navies to carry out three-day military drill beginning Monday

India and Bangladesh Navy took part in a bilateral exercise in the Bay of Bengal on Saturday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-a-historic-first-two-women-officers-to-operate-helicopters-from-indian-navy-warships-329187">Also Read:&nbsp;In historic first, two women officers to operate helicopters from Indian Navy warships&nbsp;</a>

Indian Navy ships Kiltan, Khukri and Bangladesh Navy ships Abu Bakr, Prottoy&nbsp;&amp; MPA undertook manoeuvres, surface drills, helo operations and seamanship evolutions.

IN &amp; BN ships will undertake the third edition of Coordinated Patrol CORPAT along IMBL on October 4 and 5.

The edition of Bongosagar and IN-BN CORPAT is significant in view of Mujib Barsho, 100th birth anniversary of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.&nbsp;

In September, India Navy had conducted exercises with the Russian naval forces in the Bay of Bengal. Indian and Russian naval forces had carried out several drills including surface and anti-aircraft drills, helicopter operations, manoeuvres and cross-deck flying as part of the exercise.

The Russian navy had deployed its destroyer Admiral Vinogradov, destroyer Admiral Tributs and fleet tanker Boris Butoma of the Pacific Fleet based at Vladivostok. The Indian Navy on its part deployed guided-missile destroyer Ranvijay and fleet tanker Shakti along with helicopters. 
&nbsp; 
India's naval drill in the Bay of Bengal assumes particular significance given the tense situation at the LAC where tensions between Indian and Chinese troops has been festering for several months now ever since the Galwan Valley clash on June 15. 
&nbsp;

India and Bangladesh Navy took part in a bilateral exercise in the Bay of Bengal on Saturday. Also Read: In historic first, two women officers to operate helicopters from Indian Navy warships Indian Navy ships Kiltan, Khukri and Bangladesh Navy ships Abu Bakr, Prottoy & MPA undertook manoeuvres, surface drills, helo operations and seamanship evolutions.

India and Bangladesh Navy took part in a bilateral exercise in the Bay of Bengal on Saturday. Also Read: In historic first, two women officers to operate helicopters from Indian Navy warships Indian Navy ships Kiltan, Khukri and Bangladesh Navy ships Abu Bakr, Prottoy & MPA undertook manoeuvres, surface drills, helo operations and seamanship evolutions. IN & BN ships will undertake the third edition of Coordinated Patrol CORPAT along IMBL on October 4 and 5. The edition of Bongosagar and IN-BN CORPAT is significant in view of Mujib Barsho, 100th birth anniversary of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. In September, India Navy had conducted exercises with the Russian naval forces in the Bay of Bengal. Indian and Russian naval forces had carried out several drills including surface and anti-aircraft drills, helicopter operations, manoeuvres and cross-deck flying as part of the exercise. The Russian navy had deployed its destroyer Admiral Vinogradov, destroyer Admiral Tributs and fleet tanker Boris Butoma of the Pacific Fleet based at Vladivostok. The Indian Navy on its part deployed guided-missile destroyer Ranvijay and fleet tanker Shakti along with helicopters. India's naval drill in the Bay of Bengal assumes particular significance given the tense situation at the LAC where tensions between Indian and Chinese troops has been festering for several months now ever since the Galwan Valley clash on June 15.

India, Bangladesh conduct naval exercise in Bay of Bengal

The Indian and Bangladeshi navies will hold a mega military exercise in the Bay of Bengal on Saturday which will be followed by a two-day joint maritime patrolling in the region to further expand operational coordination between the two forces, officials said.

A wide spectrum of maritime drills and operations will be conducted as part of the annual 'Bongosagar' exercise whose first edition was held in October last year, they said.

"It is aimed at developing inter-operability and joint operational skills through conduct of a wide spectrum of maritime exercises and operations. Ships from both navies will participate in surface warfare drills, seamanship evolutions and helicopter operations," an Indian Navy spokesperson said.

He said the exercise will be followed by the third edition of Coordinated Patrol (CORPAT) in Northern Bay of Bengal on October 4 and 5 under which both navies will undertake joint patrolling in the region.

"Conduct of CORPAT has strengthened understanding between both the navies and instituted measures to stop conduct of unlawful activities," he said.

The Indian Navy will deploy anti-submarine warfare corvette Kiltan and guided-missile corvette Khukri in the 'Bongosagar' exercise.

The Bangladeshi navy will be represented by guided-missile frigate Abu Bakr and guided-missile corvette Prottoy, the officials said.

In addition to ships, maritime patrol aircraft as well as a number of helicopters from both navies would also be participating in the exercise, they said.

"India and Bangladesh have a close, long-standing relationship covering a wide spectrum of activities and interactions, which has strengthened over the years," the Indian Navy spokesperson said.

The Indian Navy has participated in a number of joint maritime exercises in the last few weeks including a three-day drill with Japanese navy from September 26-28.

Last month, Indian Navy also carried out a two-day mega exercise in the Indian Ocean Region with the Australian Navy that featured a range of complex naval manoeuvres, anti-aircraft drills and helicopter operations.

In July, the Indian Navy carried out a military exercise with a US Navy carrier strike group led by the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Nimitz off the coast of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The USS Nimitz is the world's largest warship.

India has significantly expanded its deployment in the Indian Ocean Region with a plethora of warships and submarines following its border row with China in eastern Ladakh, ostensibly to send across a message to Beijing.

The Indian and Bangladeshi navies will hold a mega military exercise in the Bay of Bengal on Saturday which will be followed by a two-day joint maritime patrolling in the region to further expand operational coordination between the two forces, officials said.

The Indian and Bangladeshi navies will hold a mega military exercise in the Bay of Bengal on Saturday which will be followed by a two-day joint maritime patrolling in the region to further expand operational coordination between the two forces, officials said. A wide spectrum of maritime drills and operations will be conducted as part of the annual 'Bongosagar' exercise whose first edition was held in October last year, they said. "It is aimed at developing inter-operability and joint operational skills through conduct of a wide spectrum of maritime exercises and operations. Ships from both navies will participate in surface warfare drills, seamanship evolutions and helicopter operations," an Indian Navy spokesperson said. He said the exercise will be followed by the third edition of Coordinated Patrol (CORPAT) in Northern Bay of Bengal on October 4 and 5 under which both navies will undertake joint patrolling in the region. "Conduct of CORPAT has strengthened understanding between both the navies and instituted measures to stop conduct of unlawful activities," he said. The Indian Navy will deploy anti-submarine warfare corvette Kiltan and guided-missile corvette Khukri in the 'Bongosagar' exercise. The Bangladeshi navy will be represented by guided-missile frigate Abu Bakr and guided-missile corvette Prottoy, the officials said. In addition to ships, maritime patrol aircraft as well as a number of helicopters from both navies would also be participating in the exercise, they said. "India and Bangladesh have a close, long-standing relationship covering a wide spectrum of activities and interactions, which has strengthened over the years," the Indian Navy spokesperson said. The Indian Navy has participated in a number of joint maritime exercises in the last few weeks including a three-day drill with Japanese navy from September 26-28. Last month, Indian Navy also carried out a two-day mega exercise in the Indian Ocean Region with the Australian Navy that featured a range of complex naval manoeuvres, anti-aircraft drills and helicopter operations. In July, the Indian Navy carried out a military exercise with a US Navy carrier strike group led by the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Nimitz off the coast of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The USS Nimitz is the world's largest warship. India has significantly expanded its deployment in the Indian Ocean Region with a plethora of warships and submarines following its border row with China in eastern Ladakh, ostensibly to send across a message to Beijing.

Navies of India, Bangladesh to hold 3-day mega military exercise from Saturday

Navies of India and Japan on Sunday began a three-day anti-submarine warfare exercise in the Indian Ocean region to deepen their operational coordination in the strategically important sea lanes around the two countries.

4th edition of Jimex-2020 underway: India-Japan extensive maritime operations day 1

The navies of India and Japan on Saturday carried out a range of complex drills in the North Arabian Sea on the first day of their three-day military exercise aimed at further bolstering operational convergence, officials said.

It is the first military exercise between the two strategic partners after they signed a landmark agreement on September 9 that allows their militaries to access each other's bases for logistics support.

The fourth edition of the India-Japan maritime exercise, JIMEX, is taking place in the backdrop of growing concerns over China's military assertiveness in the Indian Ocean Region and Indo-Pacific.

The JIMEX series of exercises commenced in January 2012 with a special focus on maritime security cooperation. The last edition was conducted in October 2018 off the 
Visakhapatnam coast.

Indigenously-built stealth destroyer Chennai, Teg Class stealth frigate Tarkash and fleet tanker Deepak represented the Indian Navy in the exercise, an Indian Navy spokesperson said.

The Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force was represented by ships Kaga, an Izumo class helicopter destroyer and Ikazuchi, a guided-missile destroyer, he said.

In addition to ships, a fleet of long-range maritime patrol aircraft, helicopters and fighter aircraft are also participating in the exercise.

This week, the Indian and Australian navies too carried out a two-day mega exercise in the Indian Ocean Region that featured a range of complex naval manoeuvres, anti-aircraft drills and helicopter operations.

In July, the Indian Navy carried out a military exercise with a US Navy carrier strike group led by the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Nimitz off the coast of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The USS Nimitz is the world's largest warship.

In the exercise with the US Navy, four frontline warships of the Indian Navy participated.&nbsp; 
The US carrier strike group was transiting through the Indian Ocean Region on its way from the South China Sea.

The Indian Navy carried out a similar exercise with the Japanese navy in June.

India has significantly expanded its deployment in the Indian Ocean Region with a plethora of warships and submarines following the border row to send across a message to Beijing.

The maritime space around the Malacca Strait is very critical for China's supply chain through sea routes.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The navies of India and Japan on Saturday carried out a range of complex drills in the North Arabian Sea on the first day of their three-day military exercise aimed at further bolstering operational convergence, officials said.

The navies of India and Japan on Saturday carried out a range of complex drills in the North Arabian Sea on the first day of their three-day military exercise aimed at further bolstering operational convergence, officials said. It is the first military exercise between the two strategic partners after they signed a landmark agreement on September 9 that allows their militaries to access each other's bases for logistics support. The fourth edition of the India-Japan maritime exercise, JIMEX, is taking place in the backdrop of growing concerns over China's military assertiveness in the Indian Ocean Region and Indo-Pacific. The JIMEX series of exercises commenced in January 2012 with a special focus on maritime security cooperation. The last edition was conducted in October 2018 off the Visakhapatnam coast. Indigenously-built stealth destroyer Chennai, Teg Class stealth frigate Tarkash and fleet tanker Deepak represented the Indian Navy in the exercise, an Indian Navy spokesperson said. The Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force was represented by ships Kaga, an Izumo class helicopter destroyer and Ikazuchi, a guided-missile destroyer, he said. In addition to ships, a fleet of long-range maritime patrol aircraft, helicopters and fighter aircraft are also participating in the exercise. This week, the Indian and Australian navies too carried out a two-day mega exercise in the Indian Ocean Region that featured a range of complex naval manoeuvres, anti-aircraft drills and helicopter operations. In July, the Indian Navy carried out a military exercise with a US Navy carrier strike group led by the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Nimitz off the coast of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The USS Nimitz is the world's largest warship. In the exercise with the US Navy, four frontline warships of the Indian Navy participated. The US carrier strike group was transiting through the Indian Ocean Region on its way from the South China Sea. The Indian Navy carried out a similar exercise with the Japanese navy in June. India has significantly expanded its deployment in the Indian Ocean Region with a plethora of warships and submarines following the border row to send across a message to Beijing. The maritime space around the Malacca Strait is very critical for China's supply chain through sea routes.

Indian and Japanese navies kick-start three-day mega exercise

In a first, two women officers have been selected to join as ''Observers'' (Airborne Tacticians) in the Indian Navy's helicopter stream that would ultimately pave the way for women being posted in frontline warships.

Sub Lieutenant (SLt) Kumudini Tyagi and SLt Riti Singh would, in effect, be the first set of women airborne tacticians in India who would operate from the deck of warships.

Earlier, entry of women was restricted to the fixed-wing aircrafts that took off and landed ashore.

The two are a part of a group of 17 officers of the Navy, including four women officers and three officers of the Indian Coast Guard, who were awarded ''Wings'' on graduating as ''Observers'' at a ceremony on Monday at the INS Garuda in Kochi, a Defence statement said. The group comprised 13 officers of Regular batch and four woman officers of Short Service Commission batch.

The ceremony was presided over by Rear Admiral Antony George, Chief Staff Officer (Training) who presented the awards and coveted wings to the graduating officers.

In addition, the chief guest also awarded the Instructor Badge to six other officers, (five from the Indian Navy including a woman and another from Indian Coast Guard) who had successfully graduated as Qualified Navigation Instructors (QNI).

The Rear Admiral Antony highlighted the fact that it was a landmark occasion wherein for the first time, women are going to be trained in helicopter operations which would ultimately pave way for the deployment of women in frontline warships of Indian Navy.

The officers of the 91st Regular course and 22nd SSC Observer course were trained in air navigation, flying procedures, tactics employed in air warfare, anti- submarine warfare and exploitation of airborne avionic systems.

These officers would serve on-board Maritime Reconnaissance and Anti-Submarine Warfare aircraft of the Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard, the statement said.

In a first, two women officers have been selected to join as ''Observers'' (Airborne Tacticians) in the Indian Navy's helicopter stream that would ultimately pave the way for women being posted in frontline warships.

In a first, two women officers have been selected to join as ''Observers'' (Airborne Tacticians) in the Indian Navy's helicopter stream that would ultimately pave the way for women being posted in frontline warships. Sub Lieutenant (SLt) Kumudini Tyagi and SLt Riti Singh would, in effect, be the first set of women airborne tacticians in India who would operate from the deck of warships. Earlier, entry of women was restricted to the fixed-wing aircrafts that took off and landed ashore. The two are a part of a group of 17 officers of the Navy, including four women officers and three officers of the Indian Coast Guard, who were awarded ''Wings'' on graduating as ''Observers'' at a ceremony on Monday at the INS Garuda in Kochi, a Defence statement said. The group comprised 13 officers of Regular batch and four woman officers of Short Service Commission batch. The ceremony was presided over by Rear Admiral Antony George, Chief Staff Officer (Training) who presented the awards and coveted wings to the graduating officers. In addition, the chief guest also awarded the Instructor Badge to six other officers, (five from the Indian Navy including a woman and another from Indian Coast Guard) who had successfully graduated as Qualified Navigation Instructors (QNI). The Rear Admiral Antony highlighted the fact that it was a landmark occasion wherein for the first time, women are going to be trained in helicopter operations which would ultimately pave way for the deployment of women in frontline warships of Indian Navy. The officers of the 91st Regular course and 22nd SSC Observer course were trained in air navigation, flying procedures, tactics employed in air warfare, anti- submarine warfare and exploitation of airborne avionic systems. These officers would serve on-board Maritime Reconnaissance and Anti-Submarine Warfare aircraft of the Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard, the statement said.

In a historic first, two women officers to operate helicopters from Indian Navy warships 

Indian aircraft carrier INS Viraat that had been decommissioned in 2017 took its last voyage on Saturday from western Mumbai city to Gujarat state.

INS Viraat served the Indian Navy for 30 years, will be dismantled after it reaches Alang town in the state, said media reports.

Before it was acquired by India, the vessel was the flagship of the Royal Navy of the United Kingdom in which she was famous for participating in the Falklands War.

It was commissioned by the Indian Navy on May 12, 1987, after serving the Royal Navy for 27 years. This makes the total operational service of the aircraft carrier to be about 57 years.

The aircraft carrier played important roles in Indian peacekeeping operations in Sri Lanka, Operation Jupiter in 1989, and the 1999 Kargil conflict between India and Pakistan.

Indian aircraft carrier INS Viraat that had been decommissioned in 2017 took its last voyage on Saturday from western Mumbai city to Gujarat state. INS Viraat served the Indian Navy for 30 years, will be dismantled after it reaches Alang town in the state, said media reports.

Indian aircraft carrier INS Viraat that had been decommissioned in 2017 took its last voyage on Saturday from western Mumbai city to Gujarat state. INS Viraat served the Indian Navy for 30 years, will be dismantled after it reaches Alang town in the state, said media reports. Before it was acquired by India, the vessel was the flagship of the Royal Navy of the United Kingdom in which she was famous for participating in the Falklands War. It was commissioned by the Indian Navy on May 12, 1987, after serving the Royal Navy for 27 years. This makes the total operational service of the aircraft carrier to be about 57 years. The aircraft carrier played important roles in Indian peacekeeping operations in Sri Lanka, Operation Jupiter in 1989, and the 1999 Kargil conflict between India and Pakistan.

Indian Navy's INS Viraat on last voyage to Gujarat, set to be dismantled

A Sri Lankan court on Thursday issued a notice to the captain of the Greek-owned oil tanker that caught fire off the country's eastern coast to appear before it on September 28.

The Colombo chief magistrate court's order comes a day after Attorney General Dappula de Livera staked a claim of USD 1.8 million for the costs incurred on dousing the fire on board the Panama-registered tanker MT New Diamond that went up in flames on September 3.

The Attorney General had also asked the CID to report the facts to the court and obtain notice against the vessel's captain. He was to be charged for committing offenses under the Marine Pollution Environmental Protection Act.

The court ordered the captain of the oil tanker to appear before it on September 28.

New Diamond, a vessel under charter by the Indian Oil Corporation, was carrying 270,000 metric tons of crude oil from Mina Al Ahmadi port in Kuwait to the Indian port of Paradip when a boiler explosion in its engine room caused fire off the coast of Sangamankanda in Ampara district. A Filipino crew member died and another was injured in the mishap.

Sri Lanka Navy with the help of Indian counterparts and coast guards doused the fire after great effort.

The ship is currently in the seas 70 nautical miles east of Batticaloa in the east and 129 kilometers away from the Batticaloa coast.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/onion-prices-shoot-up-in-bangladesh-after-india-announces-export-ban-328184">Onion prices shoot up in Bangladesh after India announces export ban</a>

Two Sri Lankan naval ships, one Indian naval ship, and 3 Indian coast guard vessels are currently deployed in the operations near the oil tanker.

Some 5 ships of Indian coast guard and one Indian Navy ship engaged in fire fighting, the Sri Lanka Navy said early this month.

The tanker had 23 crew members - 18 Filipinos and five Greeks. Twenty-two of the 23 member crew had been safely rescued off the tanker. 
&nbsp;

A Sri Lankan court on Thursday issued a notice to the captain of the Greek-owned oil tanker that caught fire off the country's eastern coast to appear before it on September 28.

A Sri Lankan court on Thursday issued a notice to the captain of the Greek-owned oil tanker that caught fire off the country's eastern coast to appear before it on September 28. The Colombo chief magistrate court's order comes a day after Attorney General Dappula de Livera staked a claim of USD 1.8 million for the costs incurred on dousing the fire on board the Panama-registered tanker MT New Diamond that went up in flames on September 3. The Attorney General had also asked the CID to report the facts to the court and obtain notice against the vessel's captain. He was to be charged for committing offenses under the Marine Pollution Environmental Protection Act. The court ordered the captain of the oil tanker to appear before it on September 28. New Diamond, a vessel under charter by the Indian Oil Corporation, was carrying 270,000 metric tons of crude oil from Mina Al Ahmadi port in Kuwait to the Indian port of Paradip when a boiler explosion in its engine room caused fire off the coast of Sangamankanda in Ampara district. A Filipino crew member died and another was injured in the mishap. Sri Lanka Navy with the help of Indian counterparts and coast guards doused the fire after great effort. The ship is currently in the seas 70 nautical miles east of Batticaloa in the east and 129 kilometers away from the Batticaloa coast. ALSO READ | Onion prices shoot up in Bangladesh after India announces export ban Two Sri Lankan naval ships, one Indian naval ship, and 3 Indian coast guard vessels are currently deployed in the operations near the oil tanker. Some 5 ships of Indian coast guard and one Indian Navy ship engaged in fire fighting, the Sri Lanka Navy said early this month. The tanker had 23 crew members - 18 Filipinos and five Greeks. Twenty-two of the 23 member crew had been safely rescued off the tanker.

Sri Lanka court summons captain of oil tanker that caught fire

Indian Navy on Sunday said that oil tanker MT New Diamond was 'stable and safe'. The navy said that the oil supertanker had been tugged away and was at 95 km away from the Sri Lankan coast. Indian Navy further said that a joint team of Indian Navy, Sri Lankan Navy and salvors completed underwater inspection

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Update?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Update</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MTNewDiamond?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MTNewDiamond</a> stable &amp; safe 95km frm 🇱🇰 coast, towed by Tug TTT1 
Tug Boka Expedition taking over tow 13/14 Sep 
Joint <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianNavy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianNavy</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SLNavy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SLNavy</a> &amp; Salvor diving team completed underwater(U/W) inspection AM 13 Sep 
Salvors undertaking deballasting &amp; blanking of U/W non return valve <a href="https://t.co/gsY69fBcRN">pic.twitter.com/gsY69fBcRN</a>
— SpokespersonNavy (@indiannavy) <a href="https://twitter.com/indiannavy/status/1305141280188497921?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

MT New Diamond is a Greek-owned ship that was chartered by Indian Oil. It was hauling crude oil from Kuwait to Paradip in Odisha. The fire at the ship started because of a blast in the ship's engine room on September 3. Joint efforts by Indian and Sri Lankan Navy brought the fire under control but it reignited on September 7. Firefighting efforts ensured that the fire was completely doused on September 9.

All there was no oil spill, there was a fuel leak from one of the fuel tanks. It had made a 2 km long trail in the ocean. Even when the fire was doused the fuel leak continued.

The fuel was seeping into the water through damaged pipes connected to a ballast water intake on the ship's starboard side.

Sri Lankan Navy plugged the fuel leak on Friday.

Indian Navy on Sunday said that oil tanker MT New Diamond was 'stable and safe'. The navy said that the oil supertanker had been tugged away and was at 95 km away from the Sri Lankan coast.

Indian Navy on Sunday said that oil tanker MT New Diamond was 'stable and safe'. The navy said that the oil supertanker had been tugged away and was at 95 km away from the Sri Lankan coast. Indian Navy further said that a joint team of Indian Navy, Sri Lankan Navy and salvors completed underwater inspection #Update#MTNewDiamond stable & safe 95km frm 🇱🇰 coast, towed by Tug TTT1 Tug Boka Expedition taking over tow 13/14 Sep Joint #IndianNavy #SLNavy & Salvor diving team completed underwater(U/W) inspection AM 13 Sep Salvors undertaking deballasting & blanking of U/W non return valve pic.twitter.com/gsY69fBcRN — SpokespersonNavy (@indiannavy) September 13, 2020 × MT New Diamond is a Greek-owned ship that was chartered by Indian Oil. It was hauling crude oil from Kuwait to Paradip in Odisha. The fire at the ship started because of a blast in the ship's engine room on September 3. Joint efforts by Indian and Sri Lankan Navy brought the fire under control but it reignited on September 7. Firefighting efforts ensured that the fire was completely doused on September 9. All there was no oil spill, there was a fuel leak from one of the fuel tanks. It had made a 2 km long trail in the ocean. Even when the fire was doused the fuel leak continued. The fuel was seeping into the water through damaged pipes connected to a ballast water intake on the ship's starboard side. Sri Lankan Navy plugged the fuel leak on Friday.

Oil tanker ship away from Sri Lanka coast, stable and safe: Indian Navy

Sri Lankan Navy on Friday said that it had plugged the fuel leak on MT New Diamond, the oil tanker that was on fire for almost a week. The fire was doused on Wednesday by Indian Navy and Sri Lankan Navy. On Friday, Sri Lankan military divers fixed the fuel leak from the engine of the oil tanker.

Sri Lankan Navy and Indian Coast Guard both have said that there was no oil spill from the oil cargo of the ship. However, fuel of the ship was leaking from a fuel tank and created a two-kilometre long trail in the ocean. This trail was visible even from the air.

The fuel was seeping into the water through damaged pipes connected to a ballast water intake on the ship's starboard side, according to a navy statement.

Dutch salvage company SMIT said its experts had boarded the crippled vessel and found the 270,000-tonne crude oil cargo unaffected by the fire.

"The cargo tanks with the crude are intact," the firm told AFP in The Hague on Friday. "Discussions are ongoing on the destination of the vessel to transfer the crude."

Sri Lanka's environmental authorities fear a marine disaster if the tanker is allowed to transfer its oil to another ship in the country's waters.

Sri Lanka has asked the ship's owners to tow it away from the country's exclusive economic zone, or 370 kilometres (231 miles) from its coast.

MT New Diamond is a Greek-owned ship that was chartered by Indian Oil. It was hauling crude oil from Kuwait to Paradip in Odisha. The fire at the ship started because of a blast in the ship's engine room on September 3. Joint efforts by Indian and Sri Lankan Navy brought the fire under control but it reignited on September 7. Firefighting efforts ensured that the fire was completely doused on September 9.

Sri Lankan Navy on Friday said that it had plugged the fuel leak on MT New Diamond, the oil tanker that was on fire for almost a week. The fire was doused on Wednesday by Indian Navy and Sri Lankan Navy.

Sri Lankan Navy on Friday said that it had plugged the fuel leak on MT New Diamond, the oil tanker that was on fire for almost a week. The fire was doused on Wednesday by Indian Navy and Sri Lankan Navy. On Friday, Sri Lankan military divers fixed the fuel leak from the engine of the oil tanker. Sri Lankan Navy and Indian Coast Guard both have said that there was no oil spill from the oil cargo of the ship. However, fuel of the ship was leaking from a fuel tank and created a two-kilometre long trail in the ocean. This trail was visible even from the air. The fuel was seeping into the water through damaged pipes connected to a ballast water intake on the ship's starboard side, according to a navy statement. Dutch salvage company SMIT said its experts had boarded the crippled vessel and found the 270,000-tonne crude oil cargo unaffected by the fire. "The cargo tanks with the crude are intact," the firm told AFP in The Hague on Friday. "Discussions are ongoing on the destination of the vessel to transfer the crude." Sri Lanka's environmental authorities fear a marine disaster if the tanker is allowed to transfer its oil to another ship in the country's waters. Sri Lanka has asked the ship's owners to tow it away from the country's exclusive economic zone, or 370 kilometres (231 miles) from its coast. MT New Diamond is a Greek-owned ship that was chartered by Indian Oil. It was hauling crude oil from Kuwait to Paradip in Odisha. The fire at the ship started because of a blast in the ship's engine room on September 3. Joint efforts by Indian and Sri Lankan Navy brought the fire under control but it reignited on September 7. Firefighting efforts ensured that the fire was completely doused on September 9.

Sri Lanka Navy plugs fuel leak on the fire-hit oil tanker

The fire on MT New Diamond oil supertanker has been doused. But the race is now on to plug the fuel leak. Salvors are still taking quick measures to plug breach in one of the fuel tankers. The leaking fuel has left two trails on the sea. MT New Diamond is currently 83 km away from the Sri Lankan coast in the Indian Ocean.

There are no report of the fuel trail being dangerous to the extent that it may lead to a catastrophe. But&nbsp;it is indeed necessary that the leaking fuel tanker be fixed so that chances of any untoward incident are eliminated.

“Salvage operations are continuing. The engine room has been de-smoked. They have identified the bunker oil tank that is leaking. The next step is to empty it and then to repair the leak,” said Indika De Silva, Spokesperson of Sri Lankan Navy. He was quoted by Reuters. He further said that oil cargo the ship was carrying was intact.

Authorities want to avoid damage to the coast line like that suffered by Mauritius after the Japanese bulk carrier MV Wakashio struck a coral reef off the Indian Ocean island on July 25 and began spilling oil on Aug. 6.

Also Read | <a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/indian-coast-guard-rescues-9-fishermen-boat-drifts-in-sri-lankan-waters-326705">Indian Coast Guard rescues 9 fishermen, boat drifts in Sri Lankan waters</a>

MT New Diamond is a Greek-owned ship that was chartered by Indian Oil. It was hauling crude oil from Kuwait to Paradip in Odisha. The fire at the ship started because of a blast in the ship's engine room on September 3. Joint efforts by Indian and Sri Lankan Navy brought the fire under control but it reignited on September 7. Firefighting efforts ensured that the fire was completely doused on September 9.

Sri Lanka’s Marine Environment Protection Authority (MEPA) has said it plans to take action against the ship’s owner under the country’s laws to protect the marine ecosystem.

The fire on MT New Diamond oil supertanker has been doused. But the race is now on to plug the fuel leak. Salvors are still taking quick measures to plug breach in one of the fuel tankers.

The fire on MT New Diamond oil supertanker has been doused. But the race is now on to plug the fuel leak. Salvors are still taking quick measures to plug breach in one of the fuel tankers. The leaking fuel has left two trails on the sea. MT New Diamond is currently 83 km away from the Sri Lankan coast in the Indian Ocean. There are no report of the fuel trail being dangerous to the extent that it may lead to a catastrophe. But it is indeed necessary that the leaking fuel tanker be fixed so that chances of any untoward incident are eliminated. “Salvage operations are continuing. The engine room has been de-smoked. They have identified the bunker oil tank that is leaking. The next step is to empty it and then to repair the leak,” said Indika De Silva, Spokesperson of Sri Lankan Navy. He was quoted by Reuters. He further said that oil cargo the ship was carrying was intact. Authorities want to avoid damage to the coast line like that suffered by Mauritius after the Japanese bulk carrier MV Wakashio struck a coral reef off the Indian Ocean island on July 25 and began spilling oil on Aug. 6. Also Read | Indian Coast Guard rescues 9 fishermen, boat drifts in Sri Lankan waters MT New Diamond is a Greek-owned ship that was chartered by Indian Oil. It was hauling crude oil from Kuwait to Paradip in Odisha. The fire at the ship started because of a blast in the ship's engine room on September 3. Joint efforts by Indian and Sri Lankan Navy brought the fire under control but it reignited on September 7. Firefighting efforts ensured that the fire was completely doused on September 9. Sri Lanka’s Marine Environment Protection Authority (MEPA) has said it plans to take action against the ship’s owner under the country’s laws to protect the marine ecosystem.

Sri Lanka oil tanker: Fire doused but efforts to plug fuel leak continue

The Indian Coast guard (ICG) has allayed fears of a possible oil leak at the site of the MT New Diamond, 40 miles off the Sri Lankan Coast. The latest statement from the ICG says that a team of naval architects that boarded the oil tanker on Wednesday, has found the vessel’s stability to be in the safe zone and there is no breach of its tanks. In an improvement from the situation that persisted on Tuesday, there are currently no hotspots, flames/smoke on-board.&nbsp;

However, the rear portion of the vessel (aft) has sunken into the water by 1 metre, a slight increase from its earlier position of 3 feet. Efforts are underway to get the ship on even keel with the assistance of the salvors.

The Coast guard has also officially confirmed that the minor oil sheen sighted near aft (rear) of MT New Diamond on Tuesday, was part of the unburnt oil/ Oil mixed with water, in the ship’s engine room. This region of the ship had been spared from the explosion onboard on Monday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/oil-slick-near-mt-new-diamond-is-from-explosion-not-cargo-hold-sources-326255">WION had earlier reported</a> that the oil slick was from the explosion and not from the cargo hold.&nbsp;

In Pollution Response configuration, ICG Dornier aircraft sprayed Oil Spill Dispersant (OSD) to disintegrate the sheen on Tuesday and Wednesday. The ships were used to churn the waters to accelerate the disintegration of the oil sheen.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-burning-oil-tanker-leaks-diesel-off-sri-lankas-coast-326391/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

“The three lakh metric tonnes cargo of Kuwait crude being carried by the vessel is intact, not a drop of it has leaked. Our ships are equipped and prepared to even contain and perform recovery operations even in the event of an unfortunate spill” Krishnaswamy Natarajan, Director General, Indian Coast Guard said. He expressed hope that the Coast guard would be able to recover the entire cargo and create maritime history, as they had done earlier in 2016, at the Gulf of Kutch.&nbsp;

Speaking of the challenges involved in the current operation he said that the ships and tugs are required to maintain a 10-15 meter distance from the burning vessel to remain safe, adding that the vessels had to simultaneously douse the fire and cool different parts of the ship.&nbsp;

“There is a breach on the port side of the superstructure and the hull and the crack on the deck above the waterline. However, these breaches are not causing any entry of seawater” DG, Coast Guard added.

Currently, 7 ICG vessels are on site to aid in the phase 2 operations in the recovery of MT new Diamond, as phase 1(fire-fighting) is said to have ended. ICG has been at the forefront of this operation since Thursday, September 3rd. 
&nbsp;

The Indian Coast guard (ICG) has allayed fears of a possible oil leak at the site of the MT New Diamond, 40 miles off the Sri Lankan Coast. The latest statement from the ICG says that a team of naval architects that boarded the oil tanker on Wednesday, has found the vessel’s stability to be in the safe zone and there is no breach of its tanks.

The Indian Coast guard (ICG) has allayed fears of a possible oil leak at the site of the MT New Diamond, 40 miles off the Sri Lankan Coast. The latest statement from the ICG says that a team of naval architects that boarded the oil tanker on Wednesday, has found the vessel’s stability to be in the safe zone and there is no breach of its tanks. In an improvement from the situation that persisted on Tuesday, there are currently no hotspots, flames/smoke on-board. However, the rear portion of the vessel (aft) has sunken into the water by 1 metre, a slight increase from its earlier position of 3 feet. Efforts are underway to get the ship on even keel with the assistance of the salvors. The Coast guard has also officially confirmed that the minor oil sheen sighted near aft (rear) of MT New Diamond on Tuesday, was part of the unburnt oil/ Oil mixed with water, in the ship’s engine room. This region of the ship had been spared from the explosion onboard on Monday. WION had earlier reported that the oil slick was from the explosion and not from the cargo hold. In Pollution Response configuration, ICG Dornier aircraft sprayed Oil Spill Dispersant (OSD) to disintegrate the sheen on Tuesday and Wednesday. The ships were used to churn the waters to accelerate the disintegration of the oil sheen. × “The three lakh metric tonnes cargo of Kuwait crude being carried by the vessel is intact, not a drop of it has leaked. Our ships are equipped and prepared to even contain and perform recovery operations even in the event of an unfortunate spill” Krishnaswamy Natarajan, Director General, Indian Coast Guard said. He expressed hope that the Coast guard would be able to recover the entire cargo and create maritime history, as they had done earlier in 2016, at the Gulf of Kutch. Speaking of the challenges involved in the current operation he said that the ships and tugs are required to maintain a 10-15 meter distance from the burning vessel to remain safe, adding that the vessels had to simultaneously douse the fire and cool different parts of the ship. “There is a breach on the port side of the superstructure and the hull and the crack on the deck above the waterline. However, these breaches are not causing any entry of seawater” DG, Coast Guard added. Currently, 7 ICG vessels are on site to aid in the phase 2 operations in the recovery of MT new Diamond, as phase 1(fire-fighting) is said to have ended. ICG has been at the forefront of this operation since Thursday, September 3rd.

Not a drop of oil leak into sea from MT New diamond cargo hold, says Director General of Indian Coast Guard

Fire at MT New Diamond is under control and the oil tanker that has been on fire since Thursday afternoon, is currently being held in position by a tug boast 42 miles from the Sri Lankan Coast. This is being done to prevent the drifting of the vessel towards the shore and to facilitate fire-fighting operations with logistical ease. Six vessels from the Indian Coast Guard (ICG), their helicopters, two Dornier aircrafts and one warship of the Indian Navy are on location to undertake this mammoth effort. No oil spill has been so far reported and fire is localised.

Response ship Samudra Paheredar arrived at the scene of incident on Sunday afternoon and joined the fire fighting operation. The ship is equipped with Ocean Boom, 4 Oil Skimmers and oil spill dispersant to handle pollution response in event of an oil slick.

ICG Ships Sujay, Shaurya, Sarang and pollution response vessel Samudra Paheredar are continuously engaged in fire fighting operation on rotation using specialised external fire fighting systems. ICG fast patrol vessels Ameya and Abheek are in close vicinity to offer assistance as required. Both these vessels are equipped with aqueous film forming foam concentrate (AFFF), dry chemical powder and oil spill dispersants.

Besides this, Sri Lankan Ships Samudra, Udara, SLCGS Samaraksha, SLCGS Samudra Raksha, SLN FACs P 462 and 464 alongwith INS Sahyadri are in the area.

Indian Coast Guard's Dornier aircrafts are performing morning and evening sorties from Mattala International Airport, Sri Lanka, for aerial assessment. Coast Guard helicopters that are on the ships are also being launched regularly for aerial assessment, planning the further course of action.

Sri Lankan Air Force is carrying out aerial recce with the help of Beachcraft planes. Water is being sprayed by MI-17 helicopter via Bambi Bucket.

The inertness of cargo is being maintained with sustained fire fighting operations. While no oil spill has been reported, fire remains localised and cargo hold is reported to be safe. Fire appears to be doused and no flame and smoke is visible. Continuous boundary cooling is in progress using AFFF and water spraying. No further increase in the crack or any significant change in trim or list has been observed.

Indian authorities are in continuously in co-ordination with Sri Lankan Navy/Coast Guard and other authorities for augmentation and effective response.

MT New Diamond is a very large crude carrier. It is a Greek-owned vessel and is under charter by Indian Oil.

The ship caught fire after a major explosion in its engine room on September 3.

The first information about the vessel being on fire was received at Indian Coast Guard Maritime Rescue Co-Ordination Centre (MRCC) Mumbai.

MT New Diamond is reportedly carrying more that 2.7 lakh MT Kuwait export crude oil that was destined for Paradip, Odisha. According to Marinetraffic.com, MT New Diamond is a 20-year old Crude oil tanker that is 333 meters long and 60 meters wide.

Fire at MT New Diamond is under control and the oil tanker that has been on fire since Thursday afternoon, is currently being held in position by a tug boast 42 miles from the Sri Lankan Coast.

Fire at MT New Diamond is under control and the oil tanker that has been on fire since Thursday afternoon, is currently being held in position by a tug boast 42 miles from the Sri Lankan Coast. This is being done to prevent the drifting of the vessel towards the shore and to facilitate fire-fighting operations with logistical ease. Six vessels from the Indian Coast Guard (ICG), their helicopters, two Dornier aircrafts and one warship of the Indian Navy are on location to undertake this mammoth effort. No oil spill has been so far reported and fire is localised. Response ship Samudra Paheredar arrived at the scene of incident on Sunday afternoon and joined the fire fighting operation. The ship is equipped with Ocean Boom, 4 Oil Skimmers and oil spill dispersant to handle pollution response in event of an oil slick. ICG Ships Sujay, Shaurya, Sarang and pollution response vessel Samudra Paheredar are continuously engaged in fire fighting operation on rotation using specialised external fire fighting systems. ICG fast patrol vessels Ameya and Abheek are in close vicinity to offer assistance as required. Both these vessels are equipped with aqueous film forming foam concentrate (AFFF), dry chemical powder and oil spill dispersants. Besides this, Sri Lankan Ships Samudra, Udara, SLCGS Samaraksha, SLCGS Samudra Raksha, SLN FACs P 462 and 464 alongwith INS Sahyadri are in the area. Indian Coast Guard's Dornier aircrafts are performing morning and evening sorties from Mattala International Airport, Sri Lanka, for aerial assessment. Coast Guard helicopters that are on the ships are also being launched regularly for aerial assessment, planning the further course of action. Sri Lankan Air Force is carrying out aerial recce with the help of Beachcraft planes. Water is being sprayed by MI-17 helicopter via Bambi Bucket. The inertness of cargo is being maintained with sustained fire fighting operations. While no oil spill has been reported, fire remains localised and cargo hold is reported to be safe. Fire appears to be doused and no flame and smoke is visible. Continuous boundary cooling is in progress using AFFF and water spraying. No further increase in the crack or any significant change in trim or list has been observed. Indian authorities are in continuously in co-ordination with Sri Lankan Navy/Coast Guard and other authorities for augmentation and effective response. MT New Diamond is a very large crude carrier. It is a Greek-owned vessel and is under charter by Indian Oil. The ship caught fire after a major explosion in its engine room on September 3. The first information about the vessel being on fire was received at Indian Coast Guard Maritime Rescue Co-Ordination Centre (MRCC) Mumbai. MT New Diamond is reportedly carrying more that 2.7 lakh MT Kuwait export crude oil that was destined for Paradip, Odisha. According to Marinetraffic.com, MT New Diamond is a 20-year old Crude oil tanker that is 333 meters long and 60 meters wide.

Sri Lanka oil tanker fire: No oil spill, boundary cooling operation in progress

Fire at oil tanker MT New Diamond has been brought under control. Although Indian and Sri Lankan Navy are still engaged to put out the flames completely,the situation is largely under control. Indian Navy tweeted latest images of the firefight on Sunday.

"On Scene Commander INS Sahyadri reports, fire on MT New Diamond under control. Aerial reconnaissance being undertaken to assess the present situation, to be followed by boarding of ship," said Indian Navy in a tweet.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MTNewDiamond?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MTNewDiamond</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Update?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Update</a> 
Fire under control.<a href="https://twitter.com/SpokespersonMoD?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SpokespersonMoD</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/DefenceMinIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DefenceMinIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PetroleumMin?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PetroleumMin</a><a href="https://twitter.com/srilanka_navy?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@srilanka_navy</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiainSL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndiainSL</a> <a href="https://t.co/2KHhpSXIbO">https://t.co/2KHhpSXIbO</a> <a href="https://t.co/cJ2VPtHn3T">pic.twitter.com/cJ2VPtHn3T</a>
— SpokespersonNavy (@indiannavy) <a href="https://twitter.com/indiannavy/status/1302525372295045121?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 6, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Indian Coast Guard officials told ANI that 22 crew members had been rescued. Indian Coast Guard has deployed 6 ships and two aircrafts.

There has been constant apprehension about an oil spill ever since the oil tanker ship caught fire. However, there have not been any such reports so far.

An oil spill of this magnitude can very well prove to be dangerous as it can affect the natural habitats in the sea and can affect sea traffic in this part of Indian Ocean.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://13.235.153.162/videos/sri-lanka-sufi-scholar-warns-against-extremist-groups-325404/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

MT New Diamond caught fire on September 3 after a blast in its engine room. Sri Lankan Navy responded to the situation and later on requested Indian Navy for assistance.

The oil tanker ship was hauling crude oil from Kuwait to Paradip in Odisha. The tanker has been chartered by Indian Oil.

Fire at oil tanker MT New Diamond has been brought under control. Although Indian and Sri Lankan Navy are still engaged to put out the flames completely,the situation is largely under control.

Fire at oil tanker MT New Diamond has been brought under control. Although Indian and Sri Lankan Navy are still engaged to put out the flames completely,the situation is largely under control. Indian Navy tweeted latest images of the firefight on Sunday. "On Scene Commander INS Sahyadri reports, fire on MT New Diamond under control. Aerial reconnaissance being undertaken to assess the present situation, to be followed by boarding of ship," said Indian Navy in a tweet. #MTNewDiamond #Update Fire under control.@SpokespersonMoD @DefenceMinIndia @PetroleumMin@srilanka_navy @IndiainSL https://t.co/2KHhpSXIbO pic.twitter.com/cJ2VPtHn3T — SpokespersonNavy (@indiannavy) September 6, 2020 × Indian Coast Guard officials told ANI that 22 crew members had been rescued. Indian Coast Guard has deployed 6 ships and two aircrafts. There has been constant apprehension about an oil spill ever since the oil tanker ship caught fire. However, there have not been any such reports so far. An oil spill of this magnitude can very well prove to be dangerous as it can affect the natural habitats in the sea and can affect sea traffic in this part of Indian Ocean. × MT New Diamond caught fire on September 3 after a blast in its engine room. Sri Lankan Navy responded to the situation and later on requested Indian Navy for assistance. The oil tanker ship was hauling crude oil from Kuwait to Paradip in Odisha. The tanker has been chartered by Indian Oil.

Sri Lanka oil tanker fire brought under control, says Indian Navy

The Indian and Russian navies on Saturday carried out a range of complex maritime operations as part of a mega military exercise in the Bay of Bengal to further enhance their operational convergence, officials said.

The exercise comes at a time India is significantly expanding deployment of its warships in the Indian Ocean region in the wake of the festering border row with China in eastern Ladakh.

The Indian Ocean, considered the backyard of the Indian Navy, is critical to the country's strategic interests.

The officials said a wide spectrum of drills including surface and anti-aircraft drills, helicopter operations, maneuvers and cross-deck flying was carried out for the second consecutive day as part of the 11th edition of the biennial Indo-Russian exercise Indra Navy.

"The exercise epitomises the long-term strategic relationship between the two navies," Indian Navy Spokesperson Commander Vivek Madhwal said.

The assets deployed in the exercise by the Russian Navy include destroyer Admiral Vinogradov, destroyer Admiral Tributs and fleet tanker Boris Butoma of the Pacific Fleet which are normally based at Vladivostok.

The Indian Navy is represented by guided missile destroyer Ranvijay and fleet tanker Shakti, along with their integral helicopters.

In July, the Indian Navy carried out a military exercise with a US Navy carrier strike group led by nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Nimitz off the coast of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The USS Nimitz is the world's largest warship.

In the exercise with the US Navy, four frontline warships of the Indian Navy participated. The US carrier strike group was transiting through the Indian Ocean Region on its way from the South China Sea.

The US Navy carrier strike group comprises USS Nimitz, Ticonderoga-class guided missile cruiser USS Princeton and Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyers USS Sterett and USS Ralph Johnson.

The Indian Navy carried out a similar exercises with the Japanese navy in June.

The Indian Navy has significantly expanded its deployment in the Indian Ocean region, deploying a plethora of warships and submarines following the border row to send across a message to Beijing. The maritime space around the Malacca Strait is very critical for China's supply chain through sea routes. 
&nbsp;

The Indian and Russian navies on Saturday carried out a range of complex maritime operations as part of a mega military exercise in the Bay of Bengal to further enhance their operational convergence, officials said.

The Indian and Russian navies on Saturday carried out a range of complex maritime operations as part of a mega military exercise in the Bay of Bengal to further enhance their operational convergence, officials said. The exercise comes at a time India is significantly expanding deployment of its warships in the Indian Ocean region in the wake of the festering border row with China in eastern Ladakh. The Indian Ocean, considered the backyard of the Indian Navy, is critical to the country's strategic interests. The officials said a wide spectrum of drills including surface and anti-aircraft drills, helicopter operations, maneuvers and cross-deck flying was carried out for the second consecutive day as part of the 11th edition of the biennial Indo-Russian exercise Indra Navy. "The exercise epitomises the long-term strategic relationship between the two navies," Indian Navy Spokesperson Commander Vivek Madhwal said. The assets deployed in the exercise by the Russian Navy include destroyer Admiral Vinogradov, destroyer Admiral Tributs and fleet tanker Boris Butoma of the Pacific Fleet which are normally based at Vladivostok. The Indian Navy is represented by guided missile destroyer Ranvijay and fleet tanker Shakti, along with their integral helicopters. In July, the Indian Navy carried out a military exercise with a US Navy carrier strike group led by nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Nimitz off the coast of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The USS Nimitz is the world's largest warship. In the exercise with the US Navy, four frontline warships of the Indian Navy participated. The US carrier strike group was transiting through the Indian Ocean Region on its way from the South China Sea. The US Navy carrier strike group comprises USS Nimitz, Ticonderoga-class guided missile cruiser USS Princeton and Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyers USS Sterett and USS Ralph Johnson. The Indian Navy carried out a similar exercises with the Japanese navy in June. The Indian Navy has significantly expanded its deployment in the Indian Ocean region, deploying a plethora of warships and submarines following the border row to send across a message to Beijing. The maritime space around the Malacca Strait is very critical for China's supply chain through sea routes.

Indian Navy holds naval drill with Russia in Bay of Bengal for second day

Three Indian Coast Guard ships are headed for the Central-eastern Sri Lankan coast to help fight a fire on-board MT New Diamond, a Panama-flagged oil tanker.

Your Story: Indian Coast Guard ships en route Sri Lankan coast for firefighting | South Asia

Two months after the Galwan Valley clash which left 20 Indian soldiers dead in eastern Ladakh, the India Navy has dispatched one of its frontline warships to the South China Sea. Watch report.

Indian Navy deploys warship in South China Sea: 2 months after Galwan clash

Acting swiftly after the Galwan valley clash on June 15 in Eastern Ladakh, the Indian Navy sailed out its frontline warship for deployment in the South China Sea much to the displeasure of the Chinese who raised objections over the move during the talks between the two sides. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/china-building-missile-air-defence-sites-near-doklam-naku-la-clash-points-satellite-imagery-shows-324009">Also read | China building missile air defence sites near Doklam, Naku La ‘clash points’, satellite imagery shows</a> 
 
The Chinese have been objecting to the presence of Indian Navy ships in the region where it has significantly expanded its presence since 2009 through artificial islands and military presence.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/why-us-has-deployed-its-2-billion-worth-b-2-spirit-bombers-in-south-china-sea-315392#b-2-spirit-bombers-in-south-china-sea-315378">In pictures: Why US has deployed its $2 billion worth B-2 Spirit bombers in South China Sea</a>

"Soon after the Galwan clash broke out in which 20 of our soldiers were killed, the Indian Navy deployed one of its frontline warship to the South China Sea where the People's Liberation Army's Navy objects to the presence of any other force claiming the majority of the waters as part of its territory," government sources told ANI.

The immediate deployment of the Indian Navy warship in the South China Sea had a desired effect on the Chinese Navy and security establishment as they complained to the Indian side about the Indian warship's presence there during the diplomatic level talks with the Indian side, the sources said.

During the deployment in the South China Sea, where the American Navy had also deployed its destroyers and frigates, the Indian warship was continuously maintaining contact with their American counterparts over secure communication systems, the sources informed.

As part of the routine drills, the Indian warship was being constantly updated about the status of the movement of military vessels of other countries there, they said adding that the entire mission was carried out in a very hush-hush manner to avoid any public glare on Navy's activities.

Around the same time, the Indian Navy had deployed its frontline vessels along the Malacca Straits near the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and the route from where the Chinese Navy enters the Indian Ocean Region to keep a check on any activity of the Chinese Navy. A number of Chinese vessels also pass through the Malacca Straits while returning with oil or taking merchant shipments towards other continents.

The sources said the Indian Navy is fully capable of checking any misadventure by the adversaries on either the eastern or the western front and the mission-based deployments have helped it to control the emerging situations effectively in and around the Indian Ocean Region.

The Navy also has plans to urgently acquire and deploy autonomous underwater vessels and other unmanned systems and sensors to keep a close eye on the movement of PLAN from Malacca Straits towards the Indian Ocean Region, the sources said.

The Navy is also taking care of the Chinese vessels present around the Djibouti area and has deployed its assets in the vicinity for protecting national interest.

Acting swiftly after the Galwan valley clash on June 15 in Eastern Ladakh, the Indian Navy sailed out its frontline warship for deployment in the South China Sea much to the displeasure of the Chinese who raised objections over the move during the talks between the two sides.

Acting swiftly after the Galwan valley clash on June 15 in Eastern Ladakh, the Indian Navy sailed out its frontline warship for deployment in the South China Sea much to the displeasure of the Chinese who raised objections over the move during the talks between the two sides. Also read | China building missile air defence sites near Doklam, Naku La ‘clash points’, satellite imagery shows The Chinese have been objecting to the presence of Indian Navy ships in the region where it has significantly expanded its presence since 2009 through artificial islands and military presence. In pictures: Why US has deployed its $2 billion worth B-2 Spirit bombers in South China Sea "Soon after the Galwan clash broke out in which 20 of our soldiers were killed, the Indian Navy deployed one of its frontline warship to the South China Sea where the People's Liberation Army's Navy objects to the presence of any other force claiming the majority of the waters as part of its territory," government sources told ANI. The immediate deployment of the Indian Navy warship in the South China Sea had a desired effect on the Chinese Navy and security establishment as they complained to the Indian side about the Indian warship's presence there during the diplomatic level talks with the Indian side, the sources said. During the deployment in the South China Sea, where the American Navy had also deployed its destroyers and frigates, the Indian warship was continuously maintaining contact with their American counterparts over secure communication systems, the sources informed. As part of the routine drills, the Indian warship was being constantly updated about the status of the movement of military vessels of other countries there, they said adding that the entire mission was carried out in a very hush-hush manner to avoid any public glare on Navy's activities. Around the same time, the Indian Navy had deployed its frontline vessels along the Malacca Straits near the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and the route from where the Chinese Navy enters the Indian Ocean Region to keep a check on any activity of the Chinese Navy. A number of Chinese vessels also pass through the Malacca Straits while returning with oil or taking merchant shipments towards other continents. The sources said the Indian Navy is fully capable of checking any misadventure by the adversaries on either the eastern or the western front and the mission-based deployments have helped it to control the emerging situations effectively in and around the Indian Ocean Region. The Navy also has plans to urgently acquire and deploy autonomous underwater vessels and other unmanned systems and sensors to keep a close eye on the movement of PLAN from Malacca Straits towards the Indian Ocean Region, the sources said. The Navy is also taking care of the Chinese vessels present around the Djibouti area and has deployed its assets in the vicinity for protecting national interest.

Indian navy sent warship to South China Sea after Galwan valley clash: Report 

India's defence minister Rajnath Singh today attended the naval commanders’ conference as he reviewed Navy's challenges in proactive response in deploying ships and aircraft.

"I applaud the Indian Navy for their role in protecting maritime interests of the nation. I have full confidence in Navy’s preparedness to meet any challenge," India's defence minister said.

Rajnath Singh said, "The Indian Navy has effectively carried out mission-based deployment to protect maritime interests by deploying naval ships and aircraft at sensitive locations," adding,"deployments have helped increase maritime domain awareness and provided rapid humanitarian aid."

India's Navy commanders met on Wednesday for a three-day conclave to review the security situation in the Indian Ocean region. India has strategically deployed warships and submarines in the Indian Ocean amid tensions with China after the Galwan Valley clash in June.

Last month the US Navy's USS Nimitz had joined Indian Navy's warships off the coast of Andaman &amp; Nicobar island for a naval drill. The US-India naval exercise came just after the Indian Navy conducted an exercise with the Japanese Naval forces termed "Passex" or passing exercise.

China already has a naval base in Djibouti in the horn of Africa connecting the Suez Canal, the Gulf of Aden and the Indian ocean.&nbsp;

India has in the past few weeks increased its naval exercise as disengagement talks got underway at Galwan amid increased Chinese naval presence in the Indian Ocean and the continued threat of Chinese ships in the South China Sea where US and Chinese naval forces have been at loggerheads with each other.

The USS Nimitz aircraft carrier came in from the South China Sea last month as the Indian navy warships conducted the drill together with the US forces.

India's defence minister Rajnath Singh today attended the naval commanders’ conference as he reviewed Navy's challenges in proactive response in deploying ships and aircraft.

India's defence minister Rajnath Singh today attended the naval commanders’ conference as he reviewed Navy's challenges in proactive response in deploying ships and aircraft. "I applaud the Indian Navy for their role in protecting maritime interests of the nation. I have full confidence in Navy’s preparedness to meet any challenge," India's defence minister said. Rajnath Singh said, "The Indian Navy has effectively carried out mission-based deployment to protect maritime interests by deploying naval ships and aircraft at sensitive locations," adding,"deployments have helped increase maritime domain awareness and provided rapid humanitarian aid." India's Navy commanders met on Wednesday for a three-day conclave to review the security situation in the Indian Ocean region. India has strategically deployed warships and submarines in the Indian Ocean amid tensions with China after the Galwan Valley clash in June. Last month the US Navy's USS Nimitz had joined Indian Navy's warships off the coast of Andaman & Nicobar island for a naval drill. The US-India naval exercise came just after the Indian Navy conducted an exercise with the Japanese Naval forces termed "Passex" or passing exercise. China already has a naval base in Djibouti in the horn of Africa connecting the Suez Canal, the Gulf of Aden and the Indian ocean. India has in the past few weeks increased its naval exercise as disengagement talks got underway at Galwan amid increased Chinese naval presence in the Indian Ocean and the continued threat of Chinese ships in the South China Sea where US and Chinese naval forces have been at loggerheads with each other. The USS Nimitz aircraft carrier came in from the South China Sea last month as the Indian navy warships conducted the drill together with the US forces.

Navy has carried out mission-based deployment to protect maritime interests: Rajnath Singh

The CBI has booked four Navy officers and 14 others for allegedly generating fake bills of Rs 6.76 crore for supplying IT hardware to the Western Naval Command, officials said.

Captain Atul Kulkarni, Commanders Mandar Godbole and R P Sharma, and Petty Officer LOG (F&amp;A) Kuldeep Singh Baghel allegedly prepared seven fraudulent bills of Rs 6.76 crore, they said Wednesday.

"All these accused naval officers abused their official position to defraud the naval authorities and rob the exchequer of public money which led to pecuniary gain to themselves," according to the CBI FIR.

The probe agency has also carried out searches in this connection, sources said.

The bills were allegedly raised between January and March in 2016 at the Western Naval Command in Mumbai for supplying information technology and networking related hardware.

"None of the items mentioned in the bills were supplied to HQ, WNC (Western Naval Command). No documents pertaining to preparation of the bills i.E. Approvals, financial sanction, purchase orders, receipt vouchers, etc. Are available at HQ," the CBI FIR said.

The agency has also booked four officials of the Controller of Defence Accounts, besides private companies Star Network, ACME Networks, Cyberspace Infovision and Moksh Infosys.

The CBI has booked four Navy officers and 14 others for allegedly generating fake bills of Rs 6.76 crore for supplying IT hardware to the Western Naval Command, officials said.

The CBI has booked four Navy officers and 14 others for allegedly generating fake bills of Rs 6.76 crore for supplying IT hardware to the Western Naval Command, officials said. Captain Atul Kulkarni, Commanders Mandar Godbole and R P Sharma, and Petty Officer LOG (F&A) Kuldeep Singh Baghel allegedly prepared seven fraudulent bills of Rs 6.76 crore, they said Wednesday. "All these accused naval officers abused their official position to defraud the naval authorities and rob the exchequer of public money which led to pecuniary gain to themselves," according to the CBI FIR. The probe agency has also carried out searches in this connection, sources said. The bills were allegedly raised between January and March in 2016 at the Western Naval Command in Mumbai for supplying information technology and networking related hardware. "None of the items mentioned in the bills were supplied to HQ, WNC (Western Naval Command). No documents pertaining to preparation of the bills i.E. Approvals, financial sanction, purchase orders, receipt vouchers, etc. Are available at HQ," the CBI FIR said. The agency has also booked four officials of the Controller of Defence Accounts, besides private companies Star Network, ACME Networks, Cyberspace Infovision and Moksh Infosys.

CBI books 4 Navy officers for generating fake bills to defraud Western Naval Command

United States Navy's aircraft carrier USS Nimitz has arrived in the Indian Ocean to take part in a naval exercise with Indian warships near the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

WION Dispatch: USS Nimitz entered Indian Ocean crossing Malacca strait

US Navy's USS Nimitz, the world's largest warship, is likely to conduct a drill with Indian Navy's off the coast of Andaman & Nicobar island. Nimitz is already present in the Indian ocean and came into the ocean via Malacca Strait. Watch report

Indian navy to conduct joint exercise with US warships; Strong strategic signal to China?

America's largest warship likely to exercise with Indian Navy amid Chinese aggression

The Indian Navy on Wednesday said it has completed Operation Samudra Setu, which began on May 5, by bringing nearly 4,000 Indians back home from three countries amid the coronavirus pandemic.

"Indian Naval Ships Jalashwa (Landing Platform Dock), and Airavat, Shardul and Magar (Landing Ship Tanks) participated in this operation which lasted over 55 days and involved traversing more than 23,000 kilometres by the sea," the Navy said in a statement.

While five repatriation trips were done by ships to Male in the Maldives, two were done to Bandar Abbas in Iran and one was done to Colombo in Sri Lanka under this operation.

"The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on ships and seafarers due to the compact environment and forced ventilation systems onboard ships," the statement noted.

The greatest challenge for the Indian Navy was to avoid any incident of the outbreak of the infection on board the ships during the evacuation operation, it noted.

Rigorous measures were planned and medical and safety protocols unique to the operating environment of ships were implemented, it mentioned.

"These were strictly followed on board the ships undertaking Op Samudra Setu resulting in the safe return of 3,992 of our citizens to their homeland," it stated.

Ships used for the operation were especially provisioned and the Sick Bay or the clinic on board was specially equipped with COVID-19 related equipment and facilities, the statement said.

This operation was undertaken by the Indian Navy in close coordination with the Ministry of External Affairs, Home Affairs, Health and various other agencies of the government of India and state governments.

The Indian Navy on Wednesday said it has completed Operation Samudra Setu, which began on May 5, by bringing nearly 4,000 Indians back home from three countries amid the coronavirus pandemic.

The Indian Navy on Wednesday said it has completed Operation Samudra Setu, which began on May 5, by bringing nearly 4,000 Indians back home from three countries amid the coronavirus pandemic. "Indian Naval Ships Jalashwa (Landing Platform Dock), and Airavat, Shardul and Magar (Landing Ship Tanks) participated in this operation which lasted over 55 days and involved traversing more than 23,000 kilometres by the sea," the Navy said in a statement. While five repatriation trips were done by ships to Male in the Maldives, two were done to Bandar Abbas in Iran and one was done to Colombo in Sri Lanka under this operation. "The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on ships and seafarers due to the compact environment and forced ventilation systems onboard ships," the statement noted. The greatest challenge for the Indian Navy was to avoid any incident of the outbreak of the infection on board the ships during the evacuation operation, it noted. Rigorous measures were planned and medical and safety protocols unique to the operating environment of ships were implemented, it mentioned. "These were strictly followed on board the ships undertaking Op Samudra Setu resulting in the safe return of 3,992 of our citizens to their homeland," it stated. Ships used for the operation were especially provisioned and the Sick Bay or the clinic on board was specially equipped with COVID-19 related equipment and facilities, the statement said. This operation was undertaken by the Indian Navy in close coordination with the Ministry of External Affairs, Home Affairs, Health and various other agencies of the government of India and state governments.

Indian Navy completes Operation Samudra Setu by repatriating nearly 4,000 Indians from 3 countries

With increased Chinese combativeness, the Indian Navy has increased the monitoring of vessels in the Indian Ocean. Indian navy, as are the other services -- Army and Air Force, is in the heightened state of alert in the aftermath of the Galwan valley incident.

The Indian Navy has steadily developed the capability of being able to monitor movements through the Indian Ocean region, and interdict them as and when required.

As far as People's Liberation Army Navy units are concerned, there are only a few straits through which they can enter the Indian Ocean, which can be kept under continuous surveillance.

Meanwhile, India in 2015 had articulated its strategic vision under the acronym SAGAR --Security And Growth for All in the Region. It seeks to deepen economic and security cooperation with maritime neighbours and assist them in building maritime security capabilities. It is part of strengthening cooperation with littoral states.&nbsp;

While it is unlikely that any Galwan Valley-type misadventure by the Chinese forces could happen at sea, chances of strong response will be in offing.&nbsp;

China has developed ports in Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Djibouti etc which could also be put to dual-use by the PLA Navy, Coast Guard and Maritime Militia. While they are part of the belt and road (BRI) infrastructure project, it can impact countries hosting them.

China claims that participating countries stand to gain 2-3 per cent increase in their GDP and reduction in transportation tariffs, by participating in BRI. But this is known to be a debt trap with countries unable to repay loans leading to losses, some time territorial.&nbsp;

A big worry for Beijing is that India is not a member of BRI, but is strategically placed as well as is militarily capable of threatening both the 'Belt' in Occupied-Ladakh and the 'Road' in the Indian Ocean, should the need arise. China's prospects of succeeding in their BRI endeavour, therefore, revolve around breaching this 'Great Wall of India'.&nbsp;

The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has also been pushing towards the West using its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), which was announced in 2013. BRI aims to undertake infrastructure development and investment to strengthen China's connectivity with over 70 countries across the continents of Asia, Africa and Europe.

With increased Chinese combativeness, the Indian Navy has increased the monitoring of vessels in the Indian Ocean. Indian navy, as are the other services -- Army and Air Force, is in the heightened state of alert in the aftermath of the Galwan valley incident.

With increased Chinese combativeness, the Indian Navy has increased the monitoring of vessels in the Indian Ocean. Indian navy, as are the other services -- Army and Air Force, is in the heightened state of alert in the aftermath of the Galwan valley incident. The Indian Navy has steadily developed the capability of being able to monitor movements through the Indian Ocean region, and interdict them as and when required. As far as People's Liberation Army Navy units are concerned, there are only a few straits through which they can enter the Indian Ocean, which can be kept under continuous surveillance. Meanwhile, India in 2015 had articulated its strategic vision under the acronym SAGAR --Security And Growth for All in the Region. It seeks to deepen economic and security cooperation with maritime neighbours and assist them in building maritime security capabilities. It is part of strengthening cooperation with littoral states. While it is unlikely that any Galwan Valley-type misadventure by the Chinese forces could happen at sea, chances of strong response will be in offing. China has developed ports in Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Djibouti etc which could also be put to dual-use by the PLA Navy, Coast Guard and Maritime Militia. While they are part of the belt and road (BRI) infrastructure project, it can impact countries hosting them. China claims that participating countries stand to gain 2-3 per cent increase in their GDP and reduction in transportation tariffs, by participating in BRI. But this is known to be a debt trap with countries unable to repay loans leading to losses, some time territorial. A big worry for Beijing is that India is not a member of BRI, but is strategically placed as well as is militarily capable of threatening both the 'Belt' in Occupied-Ladakh and the 'Road' in the Indian Ocean, should the need arise. China's prospects of succeeding in their BRI endeavour, therefore, revolve around breaching this 'Great Wall of India'. The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has also been pushing towards the West using its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), which was announced in 2013. BRI aims to undertake infrastructure development and investment to strengthen China's connectivity with over 70 countries across the continents of Asia, Africa and Europe.

Indian Navy increases monitoring of vessels in Indian Ocean

Philippines Navy Chief Giovanni Carlo J. Bacordo has expressed&nbsp;gratitude to the Indian Navy for its "invaluable assistance" for helping out one of its navy ship after a fire broke out in engine room which injured two&nbsp;Philippines navy personnel.

Fire had broken in Philippines' ship BRP Ramon Alcaraz on&nbsp;May 7 which gravely&nbsp;injured two&nbsp;of its navy personnel&nbsp;with a second-degree burn.

Indian Navy ship not only repaired the ship free of cost at Navy Shipyard in Kochi but took care of the both the personnel in Indian hospitals.

The two&nbsp;Filipino Navy personnel were rushed to INHS Sanjivani Naval Hospital, Kochi for immediate treatment. One of them was later taken to Bangalore hospitals where he is still recuperating.

The Philippine Navy chief Rear Admiral Giovanni Carlo J. Bacordo in a letter to Navy chief Admiral Karambir Singh said,"your support in this unfortunate accident is way beyond our expectations and it is a testament of your sincerity in deepening our Navy to Navy partnership. Rest assured that the Philippine Navy remains committed to this Partnership"

Adding,"We hope to expand this relationship as we seek better ways to make our seas safer and more secure for everyone...fervent wishes for your continuing success in leading the Indian Navy's sustained resolve to be a global maritime force".

Gen Filemon Santos, Chief of Staff Armed Forces of the Philippines also&nbsp;wrote a letter to CDS Gen Bipin Rawat thanking him for New Delhi's help. Indian Navy's Technical teams from Naval Ship Repair Yard (Kochi) in close coordination with the Philippine crew undertook repairs and rendered the ship seaworthy within 10 days.

When the fire broke last month, the ship contacted the Philippines Defence Attache Colonel Ronaldo V Juan in Delhi who reached out to Navy headquarters and thereafter the Southern Naval command immediately sprung into action. Two&nbsp;Indian Navy ships were dispatched to escort the Philippines ship at the high seas and it was later repaired in Kochi with all locally sourced items.

Philippines envoy to India Ramon S Bagatsing Jr. told WION, "We are extremely grateful for the support by the Indian navy to the Philippines Navy ships and the personnel in terms of providing us approval to dock and to board stranded Philippines &amp; fire incident happened in one of the ships. Indian navy took care of repairs at its expense, but also took care of the physical aspect of taking care of 2 Philipino navy men and brought them to hospitals.So we are extremely grateful for what they have done for us."

Elaborating," Moving forward we look for stronger relations between our 2 countries, more specifically in the field humanitarian services within our armed forces" .

The Philipines Navy ship left after 20 days on&nbsp;May 27. The damage happened to its main propulsion, auxiliary systems and Generators which the Indian Navy helped repair.&nbsp;

It is interesting to know, A team of four&nbsp;officials from the Philippine Embassy in New Delhi, led by Philippines Defence attache, Philippines Trade attache Eugenio Elevado had travelled all the way to Kochi by road amidst countrywide lockdown to oversee the repair and recuperation of navy personnel.

Philippines Navy Chief Giovanni Carlo J. Bacordo has expressed gratitude to the Indian Navy for its "invaluable assistance" for helping out one of its navy ship after a fire broke out in engine room which injured two Philippines navy personnel.

Philippines Navy Chief Giovanni Carlo J. Bacordo has expressed gratitude to the Indian Navy for its "invaluable assistance" for helping out one of its navy ship after a fire broke out in engine room which injured two Philippines navy personnel. Fire had broken in Philippines' ship BRP Ramon Alcaraz on May 7 which gravely injured two of its navy personnel with a second-degree burn. Indian Navy ship not only repaired the ship free of cost at Navy Shipyard in Kochi but took care of the both the personnel in Indian hospitals. The two Filipino Navy personnel were rushed to INHS Sanjivani Naval Hospital, Kochi for immediate treatment. One of them was later taken to Bangalore hospitals where he is still recuperating. The Philippine Navy chief Rear Admiral Giovanni Carlo J. Bacordo in a letter to Navy chief Admiral Karambir Singh said,"your support in this unfortunate accident is way beyond our expectations and it is a testament of your sincerity in deepening our Navy to Navy partnership. Rest assured that the Philippine Navy remains committed to this Partnership" Adding,"We hope to expand this relationship as we seek better ways to make our seas safer and more secure for everyone...fervent wishes for your continuing success in leading the Indian Navy's sustained resolve to be a global maritime force". Gen Filemon Santos, Chief of Staff Armed Forces of the Philippines also wrote a letter to CDS Gen Bipin Rawat thanking him for New Delhi's help. Indian Navy's Technical teams from Naval Ship Repair Yard (Kochi) in close coordination with the Philippine crew undertook repairs and rendered the ship seaworthy within 10 days. When the fire broke last month, the ship contacted the Philippines Defence Attache Colonel Ronaldo V Juan in Delhi who reached out to Navy headquarters and thereafter the Southern Naval command immediately sprung into action. Two Indian Navy ships were dispatched to escort the Philippines ship at the high seas and it was later repaired in Kochi with all locally sourced items. Philippines envoy to India Ramon S Bagatsing Jr. told WION, "We are extremely grateful for the support by the Indian navy to the Philippines Navy ships and the personnel in terms of providing us approval to dock and to board stranded Philippines & fire incident happened in one of the ships. Indian navy took care of repairs at its expense, but also took care of the physical aspect of taking care of 2 Philipino navy men and brought them to hospitals.So we are extremely grateful for what they have done for us." Elaborating," Moving forward we look for stronger relations between our 2 countries, more specifically in the field humanitarian services within our armed forces" . The Philipines Navy ship left after 20 days on May 27. The damage happened to its main propulsion, auxiliary systems and Generators which the Indian Navy helped repair. It is interesting to know, A team of four officials from the Philippine Embassy in New Delhi, led by Philippines Defence attache, Philippines Trade attache Eugenio Elevado had travelled all the way to Kochi by road amidst countrywide lockdown to oversee the repair and recuperation of navy personnel.

Philippines Navy Chief expresses gratitude to Indian Navy Chief for repairing ship damaged by fire

As a part of Indian government's biggest repatriation operation, Indian Navy has launched&nbsp;Operation "Samudra Setu"(Sea Bridge). The Navy will be&nbsp;bringing back thousands of stranded Indians from&nbsp;Maldives.

Western Fleet Ships mission deployed in the Indian Ocean Region has set sail on Saturday evening, and joined&nbsp;joined INS Jalashwa.&nbsp;INS Jalashwa set sail from Maldives on Friday bring with more than 700 passengers onboard.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-fixes-40-per-head-for-repatriation-by-sea-from-male-to-kochi-297273">Also read:&nbsp;India fixes $40 per head for repatriation by sea from Male to Kochi</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Operation <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SamudraSetu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SamudraSetu</a>: Western Fleet Ships mission deployed in the Indian Ocean Region joined INS Jalashwa, on her passage back to Kochi in Kerala from the Maldives. INS Jalashwa is bringing back 698 Indians from the Maldives. <a href="https://t.co/NL5GAUWV5z">pic.twitter.com/NL5GAUWV5z</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1259109613242208258?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 9, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"This operation is being carried out in close coordination with ministries of defence, external affairs, home affairs, health and various other agencies of the government of India and state governments," the Navy said in a statement.

This is Indian Navy's first big-scale repatriation operation during the pandemic.

As the officials gear up to welcome the stranded Indians back home, a top police officer assured that all arrangements were in place in the Kerala to accommodate and transport&nbsp;the returnees. All passengers will have to go through thermal scanning upon arrival on the port. They will laos be asked to sign a self-declaration form before disembarking the vessel.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-indias-flight-from-dhaka-brings-back-129-stranded-indians-297624">Also read:&nbsp;Air India's flight from Dhaka brings back 129 stranded Indians</a>

The repatriated Indians&nbsp;comprise&nbsp;over 400 Keralites, around 180 people are from Tamil Nadu and the rest hail from Karnataka, Goa,&nbsp;Andhra Pradesh, Assam,&nbsp;Himachal Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, among other states.

The ship is expected to arrive at the Cruise Terminal of the Cochin Port Trust on Sunday between 9.30-10 am.

Upon returning, Keralities will be transported by KSRTC buses in small groups.&nbsp;The people from other states will be quarantined in&nbsp;Ernakulam for 14 days.

As a part of Indian government's biggest repatriation operation, Indian Navy has launched Operation "Samudra Setu"(Sea Bridge). The Navy will be bringing back thousands of stranded Indians from Maldives.

As a part of Indian government's biggest repatriation operation, Indian Navy has launched Operation "Samudra Setu"(Sea Bridge). The Navy will be bringing back thousands of stranded Indians from Maldives. Western Fleet Ships mission deployed in the Indian Ocean Region has set sail on Saturday evening, and joined joined INS Jalashwa. INS Jalashwa set sail from Maldives on Friday bring with more than 700 passengers onboard. Also read: India fixes $40 per head for repatriation by sea from Male to Kochi Operation #SamudraSetu: Western Fleet Ships mission deployed in the Indian Ocean Region joined INS Jalashwa, on her passage back to Kochi in Kerala from the Maldives. INS Jalashwa is bringing back 698 Indians from the Maldives. pic.twitter.com/NL5GAUWV5z — ANI (@ANI) May 9, 2020 × "This operation is being carried out in close coordination with ministries of defence, external affairs, home affairs, health and various other agencies of the government of India and state governments," the Navy said in a statement. This is Indian Navy's first big-scale repatriation operation during the pandemic. As the officials gear up to welcome the stranded Indians back home, a top police officer assured that all arrangements were in place in the Kerala to accommodate and transport the returnees. All passengers will have to go through thermal scanning upon arrival on the port. They will laos be asked to sign a self-declaration form before disembarking the vessel. Also read: Air India's flight from Dhaka brings back 129 stranded Indians The repatriated Indians comprise over 400 Keralites, around 180 people are from Tamil Nadu and the rest hail from Karnataka, Goa, Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Himachal Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, among other states. The ship is expected to arrive at the Cruise Terminal of the Cochin Port Trust on Sunday between 9.30-10 am. Upon returning, Keralities will be transported by KSRTC buses in small groups. The people from other states will be quarantined in Ernakulam for 14 days.

Operation Samudra Setu: Second naval ship sets sails for India

indian-navy

Indian Navy, News on Indian Navy, stories on Indian Navy, articles on Indian Navy, Indian Navy stories at Wion, Indian Navy news, Indian Navy latest news

indian navy

How Indian Navy's INS Kora destroys target in Bay of Bengal with anti-ship missile

Indian Navy's first batch of women pilots soar high on Dornier aircraft

Women Pilots take to the skies on Indian Navy Dornier Aircraft

Women Pilots take to the skies on Indian Navy Dornier Aircraft

Indian and Sri Lankan navies to carry out three-day military drill beginning Monday

India, Bangladesh conduct naval exercise in Bay of Bengal

Navies of India, Bangladesh to hold 3-day mega military exercise from Saturday

4th edition of Jimex-2020 underway: India-Japan extensive maritime operations day 1

Indian and Japanese navies kick-start three-day mega exercise

In a historic first, two women officers to operate helicopters from Indian Navy warships

Indian Navy's INS Viraat on last voyage to Gujarat, set to be dismantled

Sri Lanka court summons captain of oil tanker that caught fire

Oil tanker ship away from Sri Lanka coast, stable and safe: Indian Navy

Sri Lanka Navy plugs fuel leak on the fire-hit oil tanker

Sri Lanka oil tanker: Fire doused but efforts to plug fuel leak continue

Not a drop of oil leak into sea from MT New diamond cargo hold, says Director General of Indian Coast Guard

Sri Lanka oil tanker fire: No oil spill, boundary cooling operation in progress

Sri Lanka oil tanker fire brought under control, says Indian Navy

Indian Navy holds naval drill with Russia in Bay of Bengal for second day

Your Story: Indian Coast Guard ships en route Sri Lankan coast for firefighting | South Asia

Indian Navy deploys warship in South China Sea: 2 months after Galwan clash

Indian navy sent warship to South China Sea after Galwan valley clash: Report

Navy has carried out mission-based deployment to protect maritime interests: Rajnath Singh

CBI books 4 Navy officers for generating fake bills to defraud Western Naval Command

WION Dispatch: USS Nimitz entered Indian Ocean crossing Malacca strait

Indian navy to conduct joint exercise with US warships; Strong strategic signal to China?