New Delhi (NVI): The Indian Navy today commissioned its sixth Short Range Maritime Reconnaissance (SRMR) Dornier aircraft squadron, at the Naval Air Enclave in the strategically located Porbandar in Gujarat.
The squadron owing to its strategic location in the North Arabian Sea, will act as the first responder in this crucial region and enhancing the maritime security.
Addressing the gathering Vice Admiral MS Pawar said, “Commissioning of the Indian Naval Air Squadron (INAS) 314 marks yet another milestone in our efforts towards enhancing maritime security and our surveillance footprint in the North Arabian Sea.”
The squadron will operate the Dornier aircraft, a multi-role SRMR aircraft, with twin turboprop engine manufactured by the Hindustan Aeronautical Ltd (HAL) Kanpur, an official statement said.
It can be used for electronic warfare missions, maritime surveillance, search and rescue besides providing targeting data to weapon platform.
Contributing towards indigenous development and self-reliance through ‘Make in India’, Navy is procuring 12 new Dornier aircraft from HAL, with state-of-the-art sensors and equipment including glass cockpit, advanced surveillance radar, ELINT, optical sensors and networking features.
The squadron is the first to accept and operate four of these newly-inducted technology advanced next generation Dornier aircraft.
INAS 314 derives its name “Raptors” from the “Bird of Prey” family. The insignia of the squadron depicts a ‘Raptor bird’ searching over the vast blue expanse of the sea.
‘Raptors’ are large bird of prey known for excellent sensory capabilities, powerful and sharp talons and strong wings symbolising the capabilities of the aircraft and envisaged roles of the squadron.
INAS 314 is commanded by Captain Sandeep Rai, an accomplished and highly experienced Dornier qualified navigation instructor.
