Strategic Significance of Andaman: Strengthening India's Maritime Security"
"Strategic Significance of Andaman: Strengthening India's Maritime Security"
Introduction
Andhaman an island union territory of India situated on the eastern coast of india.
It's not a single large island but comprises of a group of islands. Having a large number of 836 islands
Nestled in the Bay of Bengal, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are known for their pristine beaches, lush forests, and vibrant marine life.
However, beyond their natural beauty, these islands hold a paramount strategic significance for India.
Geographically positioned as the country's easternmost frontier, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands serve as a sentinel in the Indian Ocean, overseeing some of the world's busiest maritime routes.
Historically, these islands have been a focal point of geopolitical interest due to their proximity to the Strait of Malacca, a critical chokepoint that facilitates a significant portion of global trade.
Since the Andaman Islands lie close to the Malacca Strait, where 70 to 80 percent of China's oil trade occurs, it is necessary for the Indian Navy to take control of this strait to control Chinese influence in case of a war or conflict.
This causes the Indian Navy to prioritize its development on these islands for effective operations in the Malacca Strait region.
Arms of indian forces
There are already many development programmers underway and some are also completed in andhaman like establishment of new air force stations , naval air stations , and naval bases for logistic support to the Navy etc...
The bases located here are:
Naval air bases:
INS KOHASSA:
Located at Shibpur in the North Andaman Island.
Commissioned in 2019, INS Kohassa enhances operational capabilities in the northern part of the Andaman Islands.
The airbase can currently handle helicopters and Dornier 228 aircraft. with plans for runway expansions from 1000ft to 3000ft to support larger military transport aircrafts like c130j Hercules and fighter aircrafts like might and the sukhoi 30mki and large reconnaissance aircrafts Like the p81 posiedon
INS UTKORSH:
Located at the Port Blair. This is the oldest naval air station in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, commissioned in 1985.
It shares its runway with Veer Savarkar International Airport. The base supports reconnaissance squadrons operating Dornier 228 aircraft and HAL Chetak helicopters.
Upgrades to its infrastructure includes the extension of its runways and the enhancement of its hangar facilities to accommodate larger aircraft and ensure its readiness.
INS BAZZ:
Located at the Campbell Bay of Great Nicobar Island.
Commissioned in 2012, it is the southernmost air station of the Indian Armed Forces. The base overlooks the Strait of Malacca and the Six Degree Channel, making it a strategic point for monitoring maritime traffic.
Initially capable of supporting Dornier Do 228 aircraft, it has been upgraded to handle larger aircraft like the C-130J Super Hercules. Future plans include further expansions to enhance surveillance and patrolling missions in the eastern Indian Ocean.
Naval bases
INS JARAWA:
Located at the Port Blair
Built in the 1964. This base primarily supports naval operations in the Bay of Bengal and is part of the strategic network of installations in the region.
Continuous upgrades have been made to improve logistics, communication, and administrative support.
INS KARDIP
Located on the Kamorta Island, Nicobar Islands
This base acts as a forward operating base for the Indian Navy.
It is regularly upgraded to support various naval operations in the region
AIRFORCE STATION
CAR NICOBAR AIRFORCE STATION:
Car Nicobar AFS is situated on Car Nicobar Island, part of the Nicobar Islands group in the eastern Indian Ocean
The station was established in 1945 it played a crucial role during the Second World War.
The airstrip and facilities at Car Nicobar AFS have been upgraded to support various aircraft, including Mi17V5 helicopters further extention and improvemant is made to accommodate heavier aircraft and fighter planes.
The base is crucial for maritime surveillance, regional defense, and rapid deployment capabilities in the Indian Ocean.
Importance of andhaman in indian security
Andhaman and nicobar command set up in 2001 is a a theater command (i.e) triservice command that bring synergy between three branches of armed forces.
Since it is an island located in the Indian Ocean, it can act as a static aircraft carrier if used effectively.
It is also a significant threat to the Chinese trade route, as it is located at the entry of the Malacca Strait.
Additionally, launching search and rescue operations, conducting maritime surveillance, and controlling drug trafficking are made easier and more accessible to the Indian Ocean and Bay of Bengal from the air bases on this island.
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