When the Andaman and Nicobar Command was created in 2001, it was planned to induct a range of assets into the OrBat of the newly raised Command. However, the build-up of force levels is still work in progress. You may have seen it in the media that the defence minister had recently reviewed the capabilities of Andaman and Nicobar Command (ANC). There is a blueprint under consideration, it has gone through several iterations and the planned assets could be expected to materialise over the next two Plan periods.

What are these assets?

You would be aware of the Long Term Perspective Plan (LTPP) of the services, determine the force generation. For instance as far as the surface component of navy is concerned, more and larger amphibious ships, more weapon carrying platforms, anti-submarine warfare (ASW) capable and missile carrying platforms are planned. Currently, the assets that we have are suited for surveillance. Recently, some more platforms including a weapon platform have been added.

As far as the army is concerned, right now we have two infantry battalions and one Territorial Army battalion. In addition, sanction of a new TA battalion has been obtained and the recruitment for the same is going on. The induction of a third army battalion is part of the long term plan.

Also, in due course, 108 Mountain Brigade at ANC will become comprehensively independent; which will result in certain additional assets such as integral air defence.

Does it mean the brigade headquarter will shift here and take charge of these battalions?

The Brigade Headquarters is already in place. However, it is expected to be made more robust and comprehensive. As far as the Indian Air Force (IAF) is concerned, surveillance remains our constant challenge. A fair amount of air traffic exists over the A&N islands. The air traffic that comes from the West towards our neighbouring countries to the East, begin to descend in my area of responsibility. Air traffic in this convergence zone is substantial. While we have a limited air surveillance capability presently, we are expecting to add substantial assets both for enhanced surveillance as well as air defence, again over the next two Plan periods.