Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Tuesday presided over the showcase of operational might and maritime prowess of the Indian Navy in Goa.
On a two-day trip to the Indian Naval Base INS Hansa in Goa to participate in the 'Rakshamantri's Day at Sea' programme, the defence minister visited at least ten ships, including aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya and INS Kolkata and overviewed the excercises by Naval aircrafts.
Sitharaman also witnessed "various naval operations, including practice missile firings, warships submarine and aircraft interaction exercises, flying operations from aircraft carrier and flypast during the two-day sea sortie".
She was accompanied by Admiral Sunil Lanba, the Chief of the Naval Staff, a release by Defence spokesperson said.
On board INS Vikramaditya, the defence minister witnessed air/heli borne under-water detection capabilities and night time takeoff of the MiG-29K aircraft from the India Navy's airraft carrier with Admiral Lanba and Flag Officer Commanding in Chief Western Command Vice Admiral Girish Luthra .
After her trip, Sitharaman tweeted: "Back on shore after a memorable and awe-inspiring visit - a day at sea. INS Vikramaditya and other ships of the fleet show the great class they belong to! The nation salutes you. Dedication and professional excellence showcased. Jai Hind."
