INDIAN

NAVY

1. History
2. Operations & Wars
3. Structure & Commands
4. Leadership
5. Branches
6. Rank Structure
7. Training Establishments
8. Weapons
9. Awards & Honours

By WhySSB Team

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Dear Defence Aspirants
I hope this letter finds you in high spirits and filled with determination. You have embarked on a
journey that demands courage, resilience, and unwavering commitment—the journey to serve our
nation through the armed forces.

Choosing a path in the defence forces is not merely a career choice; it is a calling—an opportunity to
dedicate your life to something greater than yourself. It is about safeguarding our borders, protecting
our people, and upholding the values that define our nation.

I want to remind you that this journey will not be easy. It will test your physical endurance, mental
strength, and emotional resilience. There will be challenges that push you to your limits, moments of
doubt, and times when the path ahead seems daunting. But remember, it is in facing these challenges
that you will discover your true potential.

You are choosing a path that requires sacrifice—sacrifice of comfort, sacrifice of time spent with loved
ones, sacrifice of personal ambitions for the greater good. It is a path that demands selflessness and a
deep sense of duty.

Yet, it is also a path of immense pride and honour. The pride of wearing the uniform, the honour of
serving alongside the finest men and women our country has to offer, and the privilege of defending our
motherland.

As you prepare for the rigorous selection process, keep in mind that success is not solely defined by the
outcome but by the effort you put in, the perseverance you display, and the integrity you uphold
throughout your journey.

Believe in yourself, believe in your abilities, and trust in the training that has prepared you for this
moment. Embrace each challenge as an opportunity to grow stronger, to learn, and to become the leader
our nation needs.

Lastly, never forget the reason you chose this path—to serve with courage, integrity, and honour. Your
passion for serving our country is commendable, and your commitment to this noble cause is an
inspiration to us all.

May you find strength in your purpose, courage in the face of adversity, and success in your
endeavours. The entire nation stands behind you, cheering for your success and praying for your safety.

With utmost respect and admiration,

Team WhySSB

शं नो वरुण:
It has been adapted from the Vedas. It was suggested by Shri C. Rajagopalachari.
Varuna is the presiding deity of the waters and is also responsible for maintaining ऋत
or cosmic order.
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History
The history of the Indian Navy is rich and spans several centuries. Here's a
brief overview:

1. Ancient Maritime History: India has a long maritime history dating back
to the Indus Valley Civilization (around 2500-1900 BCE) where maritime
trade with Mesopotamia was conducted. In subsequent centuries,
ports along the Indian coast became crucial hubs for trade with various
civilizations.
2. Colonial Era: During the colonial period, the British East India Company
established its dominance over Indian waters. The Royal Indian Navy
was established in 1612 by the British East India Company to protect
merchant shipping.
3. World Wars: During World War I, Indian sailors played significant roles
in various theaters. The Royal Indian Navy played a crucial role in
securing maritime routes and combating German naval threats.
4. Independence and Post-Independence: After India gained
independence in 1947, the Royal Indian Navy was divided between
India and Pakistan. The Indian Navy was formally established as the
naval branch of the armed forces of India. The first Indian naval vessels
were acquired from the United Kingdom.
5. Modernization and Growth: Since independence, the Indian Navy has
steadily grown in size and capability. It has actively participated in
various conflicts and operations, including the Indo-Pakistani wars,
liberation of Goa, the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971 (which led to the
creation of Bangladesh), and various humanitarian missions.
6. Recent Developments: In recent years, the Indian Navy has focused on
modernizing its fleet and enhancing its capabilities in response to
regional security challenges. It has also conducted joint exercises with
several navies worldwide and played an active role in maritime security
in the Indian Ocean region.
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Indian Navy’s Involvement in 1971

During the 1971 Indo-Pakistani War, the Indian Navy played a crucial role in
achieving victory for India and in the creation of Bangladesh. Here are some
key details about the Indian Navy's involvement during the war:

1. Naval Blockade: The Indian Navy implemented a naval blockade of

East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) to cut off essential supplies and
reinforcements from West Pakistan. This blockade was a significant
strategic move aimed at weakening the Pakistani military's ability to
sustain its operations in East Pakistan.
2. Operation Trident: One of the most notable naval operations during
the war was Operation Trident. On the night of December 4-5, 1971,
the Indian Navy launched a surprise attack on Karachi, Pakistan's
major port city. Indian missile boats, supported by a tanker and a
frigate, sank several Pakistani vessels and inflicted significant damage
on Karachi's infrastructure. This operation demonstrated India's naval
prowess and severely disrupted Pakistan's naval capabilities.
3. Operation Python: Following the success of Operation Trident, the
Indian Navy executed Operation Python on the night of December 8-9,
1971. This operation targeted the Karachi harbor again, resulting in
further destruction of Pakistani naval assets and infrastructure.
4. Naval Operations in the Bay of Bengal: In addition to actions in the
Arabian Sea, the Indian Navy also conducted operations in the Bay of
Bengal. They supported Indian Army operations in East Pakistan by
providing naval gunfire support and conducting amphibious
operations to assist in the liberation of areas along the coastline.
5. Outcome and Significance: The Indian Navy's actions during the 1971
war significantly weakened Pakistan's ability to sustain the conflict and
contributed to the eventual surrender of Pakistani forces in East
Pakistan. This led to the creation of Bangladesh as an independent
nation on December 16, 1971.
6. Legacy: The 1971 war highlighted the Indian Navy's capabilities and its
role in national defense and security. It marked a turning point in
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 India's maritime strategy and underscored the importance of naval
power in regional conflicts.

Overall, the Indian Navy's operations during the 1971 war demonstrated its
effectiveness in both offensive and support roles, showcasing its ability to
project power and influence events on land through maritime operations.

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Organizational Structure
and Commands
 The Indian Navy is a well-balanced and cohesive three-dimensional
force, capable of operating above, on and under the surface of the
oceans, efficiently safeguarding our national interests.

 The Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS) exercises operational and

administrative control of the Indian Navy from the Integrated
Headquarters of Ministry of Defence (Navy). He is assisted by the Vice
Chief of the Naval Staff (VCNS) and three other Principal Staff Officers,
namely the Deputy Chief of the Naval Staff (DCNS), the Chief of
Personnel (COP) and the Chief of Material (COM).

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  The Navy has the following three Commands, each under the control of
a Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief:-

1. The Western Naval Command (Headquarters at Mumbai).

2. The Eastern Naval Command (Headquarters at Visakhapatnam)
3. The Southern Naval Command (Headquarters at Kochi)

 The Western and the Eastern Naval Commands are ‘Operational

Commands’, and exercise control over operations in the Arabian Sea
and the Bay of Bengal respectively. The Southern Command is the
Training Command.

 The cutting edge of the Indian Navy are its two Fleets, namely the
Western Fleet, based at Mumbai and the Eastern Fleet, based at
Visakhapatnam. Besides the Fleets, there is a Flotilla each, based at
Mumbai, Visakhapatnam and Port Blair (A & N Islands), that provide
Local Naval Defence in their respective regions. Naval ships are also
based at other ports along the East and the West coasts of India and the
island territories, thus ensuring continued naval presence in the areas
of national interest. Further, there are various Naval Officer-in-Charges
(NOICs), under each Command, responsible for the Local Naval Defence
of ports under their respective jurisdictions.

The defence of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands is a joint responsibility of all
the three services and is coordinated by the Headquarters, Andaman &
Nicobar Command, located at PortBlair. This is the only Tri-ServicesCommand
in the Indian Armed Forces and is headed by a Commander-in-Chief, as
appointed in rotation from the three Services. The Local Naval Defence of the

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Lakshadweep group of islands is the responsibility of the Naval Officer-in-
Charge, Lakshadweep.
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Leadership
 First Chief of Naval Staff: Vice Admiral R D Katari,
 Chief of Naval Staff: Admiral Dinesh Tripathi (PVSM AVSM, NM)
 Vice Chief of Naval Staff: Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, AVSM,
VSM

 Navy Day - 1972, Navy Day is being celebrated on 04 December to

commemorate the very successful naval actions in the Arabian Sea, Bay
of Bengal and the missile attack on Karachi harbour during the India-
Pakistan war of 1971 and to pay homage to all the martyrs of the war.
During this time the Indian Naval Ships, aircraft and establishments are
open to visitors and school children.

Branches
The Indian Navy is organized into various branches, each specializing in
different aspects of naval operations and support functions. Here are the
main branches in the Indian Navy:

1. Executive
 General Service

As an Executive General Service Officer, you will be vital part of the complex
system that manages ship and also uses ship as an instrument of tactical
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warfare. The Executive Officers gets opportunities to participate in all facets
of naval operations onboard a warship. Hydrographers are trained in
specializations such as Anti-Submarine Warfare, Navigation,
Communications, Gunnery and Diving.

 Hydro

A Hydrographer in Indian Navy is exposed to international professional

practices. The Hydrographic Officer operates from highly sophisticated
platforms to conduct surveys at sea. The Hydrographic Officer is also
involved in producing navigational charts that are of international standards
and are used by mariners across the world.

 Pilot

Naval pilots in Naval Air Arm conducts naval aircraft search, locate & attack
enemy ships, submarines and aircraft whilst providing a defensive cover to
our assets at sea. Naval pilots operate fighter aircraft & helicopters from
aircraft carriers & ships at sea as well as maritime reconnaissance aircraft
from ashore.

 Observer

Observer Officers act as an airborne coordinators of maritime warfare. They

operate various state-of-the-art equipment including sonics, radars, sonars
and communication equipment. As an airborne tactician, Observer Officers
fly on board helicopters or fixed wing aircrafts of the Indian Navy.

 Logistic

Logistics Officers are involved in planning, forecasting and execution of the

budget and inventory management of spare parts and other items required
for day-to-day running of the ships. They are also entrusted with meeting
the food and clothing requirements of the personnel of the Indian Navy,
which plays a crucial role in maintaining morale. These officers are trained

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in Inventory Management, Finance, Supply Chain Management and
Information Technology.

 Naval Armament Inspection (NAIC)

NAI Officers are the specialist Officers responsible for inspection & quality
assurance (QA), in-house research & development (R & D), life extensions
and life assessment to ensure safety, serviceability and functional reliability
of the armaments in the inventory of Indian Navy.

 Information Technology

Naval IT set-up is unique since it involves not only shore based

establishments but also afloat units, which require to maintain connectivity
& synchronized operations. IT Officers in Indian Navy ensure
implementation of enterprise-wide networking and software development
projects. Their duties also include management of critical naval networks &
software applications. Additionally, they are involved in development
activities with respect to cyber security products. Also, administration of
ashore and afloat networks, cyber security incident response & cyber
forensics, are part of duties of Information Technology Officers.

 Air Traffic Controller (ATC)

The Indian Navy operates various types of modern aircraft from shore based
airfields as well as from ships. Air Traffic Control Officers in the Indian Navy
control naval fighter aircraft, maritime reconnaissance aircraft and multi-
role helicopters both ashore & afloat.

 Law

Judge Advocate General (JAG) department is the legal arm of the Indian
Naval Service, professionally contributing to a disciplined force, with
targeted legal solutions in the performance of legal and judicial duties. An
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Officer in this department is expected to render advice & assistance to ships
/ establishments / units of the Indian Navy, monitoring court cases and also
in pursuing litigation in the various courts at various levels.

 Sports

Officers in this branch, serve as Physical Training Officers at various

establishments, to look after carious facets of sports management. These
Officers serve at Command Headquarters / Establishments, to nurture and
train some of the finest sportsmen of the Navy for various competitions.

 Musicians

Naval Musicians Officers are responsible for conducting the acclaimed Naval
Band at the Ceremonies and Symphonic Band Concerts in the India /
Abroad.

2. Engineering
 General Service

Indian Navy is a technology-driven force with its ships, submarines and

aircraft fitted with cutting edge equipment. Engineering Officers operate
and maintain marine engineering equipment onboard ships / submarines /
aircrafts. Additionally, they also work in repair yards and maintenance units,
design & production organizations to contribute to indigenous ship-building.
Engineering Officers in Indian Navy not only get exposed to wide spectrum
of job profiles but also get ample opportunities to undergo technical
courses / Post Graduation in the India and abroad.

 Naval Architecture

Officers in this branch specialize in warship and submarine construction.

These Officer gets exposure to wide spectrum of field which includes design
of warships and submarines, overseeing construction of various shipyards,
platform trials at sea, quality control and repair & construction of Naval

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Vessels. In addition, they also get an enriching exposure to current and
future technologies.

 Electrical

Electrical Officers in Indian Navy are responsible for maintaining combat

readiness of sophisticated missile systems, underwater systems, long range
sensors and advance combat management system which employ niche
technologies and complex software algorithms. Broadly, Electrical Officers
operate & maintain the marine electrical equipment onboard ships /
submarines / aircrafts. Electrical Officers also get opportunities to work on
warship design and building aspects.

 Education

Education Officers provide support towards education, training and

professional development of Naval Personnel. A key determinant for
outcome of any mission is the training imparted to officers and men.
Accordingly, Education Officers play a major role and are responsible for
scientific and methodical instructions including theoretical aspects of
technical subjects of all branches of Indian Navy and for general educational
advancement of its personnel.

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Rank Structure

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Training Establishments
The Indian Navy operates several training establishments that play a crucial
role in preparing its personnel for various roles and responsibilities within the
naval service. These establishments are spread across different locations in
India and cater to the training needs of officers, sailors, and civilian
personnel. Here are some key training establishments of the Indian Navy:
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 Indian Naval Academy (INA), Ezhimala: Located in Kannur district,
Kerala, the INA is the premier officer training establishment of the
Indian Navy. It trains cadets of the Indian Navy, Indian Coast Guard, and
friendly foreign countries. The INA conducts a four-year B.Tech program
for cadets joining as officers, along with various other courses for
midshipmen and cadets.

 Naval Academy (NAVAC), Goa: NAVAC in Goa is responsible for training

cadets who join the Indian Navy through the Indian Naval Academy
Entrance Test (INET). It provides basic training to new cadets before
they proceed to further specialized training.

 Naval War College (NWC), Goa: The NWC in Goa is the premier
institution for higher education and operational training in the Indian
Navy. It offers courses in strategy, operational planning, maritime
warfare, and international relations to officers of the Indian Navy and
friendly foreign countries.

 Naval Institute of Aeronautical Technology (NIAT), Kochi: NIAT in Kochi

provides technical training to officers and sailors of the Indian Navy in
aeronautical engineering, avionics, and aircraft maintenance.

 Naval Maritime Academy (NMA), Mumbai: NMA in Mumbai focuses on

training sailors and officers in seamanship, navigation, maritime law,
and other aspects of naval operations.

 INS Shivaji, Lonavala: INS Shivaji is the premier technical training

establishment of the Indian Navy, located near Lonavala, Maharashtra.
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 It provides training in marine engineering, electrical engineering, and
weapon engineering to sailors and officers.

 Naval Dockyard Apprentices School (NDAS), Mumbai: NDAS in Mumbai

offers technical training to sailors in various trades related to
shipbuilding, repair, and maintenance.

 INS Chilka, Odisha: INS Chilka is the basic training establishment for
sailors of the Indian Navy. It conducts recruit training, physical fitness
training, and indoctrination courses for new sailors.

 Submarine School, Visakhapatnam: The Submarine School in

Visakhapatnam provides specialized training to officers and sailors of
the Indian Navy in submarine operations, tactics, and maintenance.

 INS Satavahana, Visakhapatnam: INS Satavahana is the establishment

for training naval personnel in underwater warfare, including diving,
salvage operations, and anti-submarine warfare.

These training establishments play a crucial role in shaping the skills,

knowledge, and professionalism of personnel in the Indian Navy, ensuring
they are prepared to meet the challenges of maritime security and naval
operations effectively.

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Weapons
The Indian Navy maintains a diverse arsenal of weapons, submarines, and
aircraft to fulfill its roles in maritime defense, deterrence, and power
projection. Here’s an overview of some of the key weapons systems,
submarines, and aircraft operated by the Indian Navy:
Weapons:
1. Missiles:
o BrahMos Missile: A supersonic cruise missile jointly developed by

India and Russia, capable of being launched from ships,

submarines, aircraft, and land-based platforms.
o Kilos and Klubs: Refers to the Russian-made Kilo-class submarines

armed with Klub-S (NATO reporting name: SS-N-27) anti-ship

cruise missiles.
o Harpoon: American anti-ship missile system used for long-range

strikes against surface targets.

o Barak Missile: Israeli surface-to-air missile (SAM) system used for

air defense.
2. Guns and Cannons:
o 76mm Super Rapid Gun Mount (SRGM): Used for anti-aircraft and

anti-surface roles on various Indian Navy vessels.

o AK-630: A Russian-made close-in weapon system (CIWS) providing

last-ditch defense against anti-ship missiles and aircraft.

o Oto Melara 76mm: Italian naval gun system used for surface

warfare and shore bombardment.

3. Torpedoes:
o Whitehead A244/S: Italian lightweight torpedoes used for anti-

submarine warfare (ASW).

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 o Varunastra: Indian-made heavyweight torpedo designed for ASW
operations.
Submarines:
1. Diesel-Electric Submarines:
o Kilo-class: Acquired from Russia, these submarines are known for

their quiet operation and are armed with torpedoes and anti-ship
missiles.
o Scorpène-class: French-designed submarines being built under

Project 75 in India, equipped with torpedoes and SM.39 Exocet

anti-ship missiles.
2. Nuclear-powered Submarines:
o INS Arihant (SSBN): India's first indigenously built nuclear-

powered ballistic missile submarine, armed with K-15 and K-4

submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs).
o INS Chakra (Akula II-class): Leased from Russia, this nuclear-

powered attack submarine enhances India's operational

capabilities.
Aircraft:
1. Fixed-Wing Aircraft:
o MiG-29K: Russian multi-role carrier-based fighter aircraft

operated from aircraft carriers.

o Hawker Sea Harrier: British-designed jump-jet used for close air

support and anti-submarine warfare from aircraft carriers.

o P-8I Poseidon: American maritime patrol aircraft used for anti-

submarine warfare, surveillance, and reconnaissance.

2. Helicopters:
o Sea King: British-made anti-submarine warfare helicopters used

for ASW and search and rescue operations.

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 o Chetak and ALH Dhruv: Indian-made helicopters used for utility
roles, search and rescue, and light transport operations.
Aircraft Carriers:
1. INS Vikramaditya: A modified Kiev-class aircraft carrier acquired from
Russia, capable of operating MiG-29K fighters and helicopters.
2. INS Vikrant: India's first indigenous aircraft carrier (IAC-1), currently
undergoing sea trials, designed to operate MiG-29Ks and indigenous
Tejas fighter aircraft.
These weapons, submarines, and aircraft form the backbone of the Indian
Navy's capabilities, enabling it to maintain maritime superiority, safeguard
national interests, and contribute to regional stability in the Indian Ocean
region and beyond.

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Awards & Honours

Notable recipients of some of the highest awards:

1. Param Vir Chakra:

o Lieutenant Commander (later Vice Admiral) M.P. Awati -
Awarded for gallantry during the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971.
2. Maha Vir Chakra:
o Captain Mahendra Nath Mulla - Awarded for gallantry during the
Indo-Pakistani War of 1971.
o Commodore Babru Bhan Yadav - Awarded for gallantry during
the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971.

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 3. Vir Chakra:
o Commander (later Vice Admiral) Rustom K. Siganporia - Awarded
for gallantry during the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971.
o Commander K.K. Nair - Awarded for gallantry during the Indo-
Pakistani War of 1971.
4. Param Vishisht Seva Medal (PVSM):
o Admiral Sunil Lanba - Former Chief of Naval Staff, awarded for
exceptional service.
o Admiral R.K. Dhowan - Former Chief of Naval Staff, awarded for
exceptional service.
5. Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM):
o Vice Admiral P.N. Murthy - Awarded for distinguished service.

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