BACKED BY BRAHMOS, NAVY’S MINICOY BASE TO KEEP WATCH OVER ARABIAN SEA

Why in the news?

Indian Navy upgrades Minicoy base with BrahMos missiles, enhancing surveillance amid growing Chinese naval activity. Karwar base expansion approved.

source:slideserve

Key points of the Indian Navy’s Minicoy Base Upgrade:

  • INS Jatayu, the Indian Navy’s new base on Minicoy Island, will feature radars, jetties, airfield, and BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles.
  • The upgrade is part of a strategic plan to bolster India’s security presence in the region, given the island’s proximity to critical Sea Lanes of Communication (SLOC) and amid increased Chinese naval activity in the Indian Ocean.
About  Karwar Base:

●   Karwar naval base, inaugurated with new infrastructure by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, will accommodate more ships and submarines under Phase IIA of Project Seabird.

●   Phase IIA includes iconic structures like a Covered Dry Berth, showcasing India’s commitment to enhancing naval capabilities and security infrastructure.

About Lakshadweep island:

●    Lakshadweep, India’s smallest UT, comprises 36 islands.

●    Only 11 are inhabited.

●    Total area: 32 sq km.

●   Directly governed by the Central government.