The Indian Navy is gearing up to showcase its operational prowess in a significant ‘Operational Demonstration’ scheduled for December 4, 2023, at Sindhudurg Fort in Maharashtra. This event, hosted by Admiral R Hari Kumar, Chief of the Naval Staff, is in commemoration of Navy Day and will feature 20 warships and 40 aircraft, including renowned models like the MiG 29K, LCA Navy, and MARCOS.
Sindhudurg Fort, erected in 1660 under the patronage of Maratha ruler Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, holds profound historical maritime significance, making it an ideal backdrop for the Navy’s operational demonstration showcasing its frontline assets. Navy Day on December 4 honors the pivotal “Operation Trident,” a crucial attack on Karachi harbor during the 1971 War.
The primary objective of the ‘Op Demo’ is to recognize the bravery and determination of personnel who achieved commendable feats in challenging circumstances. The event also provides the general public and virtual observers with the opportunity to witness the advanced ships and aircraft of the Indian Navy through live telecasts.
The spectacle will include 20 warships and 40 aircraft, presenting attractions such as the MiG 29K, LCA Navy, combat beach reconnaissance, assault demonstrations by Marine Commandos, Naval Band performances, continuity drills, and more. The grand finale is set to feature a ship illumination and a captivating laser show at Sindhudurg Fort. Notably, this marks the first instance of the Indian Navy organizing a mega event away from a major naval station.
Sindhudurg Fort, strategically located 550 kilometers from Mumbai and approximately 135 kilometers from Goa’s naval base, has been chosen in collaboration between the Navy, State Government, and local authorities to ensure the seamless execution of these events.
Navy Day celebrations serve the broader purpose of raising public awareness about maritime significance, emphasizing the Navy’s crucial role in national security, and fostering citizens’ understanding of maritime affairs. In the previous year, the Beating Retreat and Tattoo Ceremony were executed by the Indian Naval Band, with performances conducted before and after sunset at the Gateway of India in Mumbai.
Notably, last year witnessed Navy Day celebrations in Visakhapatnam for the first time, while the Indian Army and Air Force held their annual parades in Bengaluru and Chandigarh. This year, the Navy festivities are planned for the west coast, with the carefully chosen venue of Sindhudurg Fort meeting the Navy’s requirements for the operational demonstration of its frontline assets, coupled with its rich maritime history dating back to the 1660s.