Admiral Sunil Lanba CNS reviews Indian Navy’s Theatre Level Operational Readiness Exercise (TROPEX 2017)
The Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Sunil Lanba reviewed the ongoing Annual Theatre level Readiness and Operational Exercise (TROPEX) 2017. TROPEX 2017 is presently underway since 24 January 2017.
The CNS was accompanied by COAS, General Bipin Rawat and Vice Admiral Girish Luthra, FOC-in-C, Western Naval Command.
Highlights from CNS review of TROPEX 2017:
- The CNS witnessed a host of exercises viz. Gunnery shoots, Surface to Air missile engagements, Brahmos firing and operations of the combined Fleet in a complex multi-threat environment including sub-surface and air threats.
- The high-point of the exercise was Large Force Engagement (LFE) by the Fleet units against threat simulated by air element from Indian Air Force aircraft. These threats emanated from different directions and were neutralised by using Beyond Visual Range (BVR) missile capabilities of MiG 29Ks, the integral air arm of the Indian Navy, operating from INS Vikramaditya in coordination with other Fleet units. All these exercises validated the combat effectiveness of Indian Navy platforms.
- The CNS congratulated the men for keeping the fleet combat ready at all times and executing all assigned tasks in a most professional manner. He also mentioned that training during peacetime has to be on par with how we would Fight during war and emphasised on taking bold decisions with due cognisance to risks involved and ensuring safety of men and material.
About TROPEX 2017:
- TROPEX 2017 is a month-long exercise/war drill, encompassing all dimensions of maritime warfare and is witnessing participation of over 60 ships, 05 submarines and more than 70 naval aircraft. It also includes the participation of a large number of assets from the Indian Air Force, Infantry amphibious elements from Indian Army and ships/aircraft from the Indian Coast Guard.
- As a part of the exercise, niche capabilities of the Marine Commandoes (MARCOs) and Army Special Forces, including Airborne Assault and Combat Free Fall were undertaken from IAF C-130 aircraft.
- The exercise culminated with the restoration of sovereign control over the affected islands, by the Armed Forces.
- During debriefing of the exercise, CNS and COAS discussed various options to further enhance the effectiveness of the joint exercise.
TROPEX 2017 assumes special significance in the backdrop of the current security scenario, being aimed at testing the combat readiness of the combined fleets of the Indian Navy, and the assets of the Indian Air Force, Indian Army and the Indian Coast Guard. It will also strengthen interoperability and joint operations in a complex environment.
PIB
