Signalling India’s deepening naval engagement in the Indian Ocean, the Indian navy has for the first time deployed one of its advanced maritime reconnaissance aircraft to Seychelles for surveillance of the island nation’s Exclusive Economic Zone.
Fact Punch
It is the first such deployment of the Boeing P 8I to a foreign country.
The aircraft has been in Seychelles since March 20, according to the Navy.
The move is in accordance with the MoU between the Governments of India and Seychelles.
The aircraft deployment, which followed earlier surveillance missions of the Seychellois EEZ by naval ships, reflects India’s increased maritime engagement in the region.
India and China are locked in efforts to widen their respective spheres of influence in the strategically vital Indian Ocean.
India has been reaching out to the smaller Indian Ocean island nations through various Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA) exercises that include Search and Rescue (SAR) support, oil pollution response exercises, and assistance in legal matters.
Besides supplying naval vessels and aircraft, the Indian navy has supported countries such as Sri Lanka, Mauritius, Maldives and Seychelles with training, hydrographic surveys, surveillance operations and counter-terror patrols.
About P 8I
The Indian Navy has, in the past, undertaken surveillance missions in the Seychellois EEZ twice a year, but by deploying naval ships. The P 8I is a cheaper, economical, faster and more effective option than the naval ships, and sends a signal about navy’s overall ambition and capabilities.
The deployment will also facilitate professional interaction between the aircrew and the Seychelles People’s Defence Force (SPDF).
History
The last such surveillance deployment was undertaken by ships of the 1st Training Squadron of the Indian Navy in October last year.
Current Affairs 21st March, 2016 Highlights of Union Budget 2016-17 Highlights of Railway Budget 2016
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