Vice Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Eastern Naval Command (ENC), visited INS Rajali to assess the operational readiness of the leased MQ-9B High-Altitude Long-Endurance Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) stationed there. The visit, spanning June 5-7, included a comprehensive review of infrastructure, personnel performance, and the UAVs' operational status.
Vice Admiral Pendharkar received detailed briefings on the MQ-9B UAVs, focusing on their utilization, maintenance, and integration into the Indian Navy's maritime surveillance operations. He emphasized the significance of these UAVs in enhancing the Navy's capabilities across various domains, including anti-piracy patrols, search and rescue missions, and maritime security.
The leased MQ-9B UAVs have been a valuable asset to the Indian Navy, providing enhanced situational awareness and extended reach over vast maritime areas. Their high-altitude and long-endurance capabilities make them ideal for monitoring and safeguarding India's maritime interests.
The ENC Chief's visit underscores the Navy's commitment to modernizing its fleet with advanced technologies and unmanned systems. The assessment of operational readiness ensures that these leased UAVs are effectively utilized to bolster India's maritime security and contribute to the nation's overall defense strategy.
