Need for tri-Service communications networks stressed

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM - Top commanders of the Indian armed forces Wednesday stressed the need for seamless integration and synergy of the three Services to counter threats to the vast national resources in the southern peninsula and economic zones in the Indian Ocean Region.

At a two-day meeting that ended here Wednesday, top commanders of the army, navy and air force sought integrated and secure communication networks for smooth tri-Service interaction.

In the light of the Nov 26, 2008, terror attack in Mumbai, the commanders noted that the command, control and coordination for effective coastal security can only be achieved through cooperative exercises among the three wings.

Southern Air Command chief Air Marshal Sumit Mukerji said the spirit of ‘jointmanship’ and synergy should be taken to the lowest component of the service commands.

Chief of the Integrated Defence Staff (New Delhi) Air Marshal S.C. Mukul, who chaired the meeting, pointed out the importance of coordination and understanding among the various commands.

The meeting was attended by Southern Army Command GOC-in-C Lt.General Pradeep Khanna, Southern Naval Command FOC-in-C Vice Admiral K.N. Sushil and Andaman & Nicobar Command C-in-C Vice Admiral D.K. Joshi.