Operational readiness top priority for Indian Navy to secure economic interest: Admiral Swaminathan

New Delhi: Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral Krishna Swaminathan on Sunday said that his highest priority would be to ensure that the Indian Navy maintains the highest level of operational readiness and combat effectiveness to protect the economic interests and security of India.

"It shall be my highest priority to ensure that the Indian Navy maintains the highest level of operational readiness and combat effectiveness so that it can protect the nation's security and economic interests," said during his first press briefing after assuming charge as the 27th Chief of the Naval Staff.

Chief of the Naval Staff further added that Indian Navy's efforts towards Atmnirbharta (self-dependence) and indenisation will remain his focus area.

"As you all are aware, the Indian Navy is well set on the course of capability enhancement and modernization. It's helping my endeavor to sustain the growth momentum of the Navy, consolidate all the programs, scale up where required, and sharpen our operational capabilities through the induction of niche and emerging technologies as soon as I can," he stated.

He succeeds Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi. Admiral Swaminathan said that the Indian Navy remains vigilant in safeguarding the nation's interests and is actively deployed in a regional security environment that continues to be challenging, complex, unpredictable and uncertain.

Emphasising that Indian Navy is well set on a course of capability enhancement and modernisation, he assured that his foremost priority will be to ensure that the Navy maintains the highest levels of operational readiness and combat effectiveness to protect India's security and economic interests wherever required.

Outgoing Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi said that it has been an honour for him to be at the helm of India’s Navy. He noted that the Navy has consistently delivered whenever the nation has called upon it.

NE Latest: Indian military to modernize through startups, industry and academia: CDS Subramani

Highlighting Operation Sindoor and Operation Urja Suraksha, Admiral Tripathi said the Navy's commitment and professionalism continue to be evident amid evolving regional security challenges, including the ongoing situation in West Asia.

Ends.