NEW DELHI: India is the seventh-largest country in the world and owns the coastline of 7,516.6 km. Here comes the role of the Indian navy, which is responsible for safeguarding and securing such an enormous coastal area. Navy always holds a very strategic role in a country like India.
Indian navy is a prodigious name in itself and budding force to reckon with. Indian Navy is the naval branch of the armed forces of India and works along with the Indian Air Force and the Indian Army. It is the fifth largest Navy and is considered as one of the strongest navies around the world. The headquarters of Navy is located in New Delhi.
Indian Navy is also known by the name of Bharatiya Nau Sena. The naval persons are no less than the superheroes. Their constant will to serve the nation and sheer dedication are commendable.
The current flag of Indian Navy incorporates St. George's Cross design, a part of the Union Jack. Wikimedia CommonsThe current flag of Indian Navy incorporates St. George's Cross design, a part of the Union Jack. Wikimedia Commons
Indian Navy Day is celebrated on 4 December and the motto of the naval force is 'Sham No Varunaḥ', which means "may the Lord of the water be auspicious unto us". The current flag of Indian Navy incorporates St. George's Cross design, a part of the Union Jack.
The roots of Indian Navy can be traced back to the 17th-century. Initially, British East India Company established the naval fleet in India, under the name of East India Company's Marine in 1612. Later on, it was renamed as Royal Indian Navy but soon after the independence, Royal Indian Navy became Indian Navy.
Here are 20 interesting facts about our naval superheroes of the seas that defend our coastal areas.
MARCOS is the special operation unit of the Indian Navy. Wikimedia Commons
Ezhimala Naval Academy in Kerala is the largest naval academy in the whole of Asia. Wikimedia Commons
Indian Navy has a dedicated multi-brand communication satellite called GSAT – 7. Wikimedia Commons
There are 11 destroyers deployed by the Indian Navy. Wikimedia Commons
Indian Navy keeps itself abreast of any adversity by striking a balance between its warships, aircrafts and patrol vessels. The current operational fleet of the Indian navy consists of 1 aircraft carrier, 11 destroyers, 14 frigates, 24 corvettes and 16 submarines. Aiming high on 'Make in India' program, most Navy ships and submarines are now manufactured indigenously.