1. What is INS Jatayu?
INS Jatayu is the Indian Navy’s upcoming base located on Minicoy Island in the Lakshadweep archipelago. It is being developed to enhance India’s maritime security and surveillance capabilities, especially in the Arabian Sea region. The base will feature advanced military assets including radars, jetties, an airfield, and BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles.
2. Why is Minicoy Island significant for India’s defense?
Minicoy Island’s strategic location near critical Sea Lanes of Communication (SLOC) and its proximity to the Maldives make it vital for monitoring maritime traffic and deterring potential threats. The establishment of INS Jatayu on Minicoy Island aims to strengthen India’s security footprint in the Indian Ocean, countering the expanding Chinese naval presence.
3. What are the key features of the INS Jatayu base?
INS Jatayu will include sophisticated radar facilities for enhanced surveillance, coastal batteries equipped with BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles for defense, and an airfield capable of accommodating long-range maritime patrol aircraft. These features collectively aim to improve India’s maritime security and response capabilities.
4. How does INS Jatayu contribute to India’s strategic defense?
By serving as a ‘gatekeeper’ in the Arabian Sea, INS Jatayu will play a crucial role in monitoring and securing India’s maritime boundaries. It will act as a deterrent against any adversarial presence, ensuring the safety of maritime trade routes and enhancing India’s strategic depth in the Indian Ocean region.
5. What other upgrades are associated with the naval base expansion?
Alongside the development of INS Jatayu, new infrastructure and facilities have been inaugurated at the Karwar naval base in Karnataka. These include two major piers and residential towers for defense personnel. Additionally, the base expansion includes a Covered Dry Berth, a significant addition designed to accommodate more ships and submarines.
6. What is the significance of the BrahMos missiles at INS Jatayu?
The BrahMos missiles, known for their precision and extended range, provide a flexible and powerful defensive capability. Deployed at INS Jatayu, these missiles enhance India’s ability to respond to maritime threats swiftly and effectively, offering a strategic advantage in the region.
7. How does this development reflect India’s response to geopolitical challenges?
The establishment of INS Jatayu and the expansion of naval bases like Karwar reflect India’s proactive approach to addressing the dynamic geopolitical landscape in the Indian Ocean. It underscores the importance of fortifying maritime defenses to maintain stability and security in the face of growing regional challenges.
SRIRAM’s
