- Overview: In a massive projection of maritime power amidst the escalating Middle East war, the Indian Navy has deployed the INS Vikramaditya Carrier Strike Group (CSG) to the North Arabian Sea to secure vital Sea Lines of Communication (SLOCs).
- Key Points:
- Power Projection: The deployment includes guided-missile destroyers of the Visakhapatnam-class and Kalvari-class attack submarines, creating a heavily defended maritime perimeter.
- Anti-Piracy & Anti-Drone: Designed to neutralize emerging threats from loitering munitions and Houthi-aligned anti-ship ballistic missiles targeting commercial shipping.
- Strategic Posturing: Signals India’s unwavering commitment to being the “Net Security Provider” in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) during extreme geopolitical volatility.
- Aerial Dominance: MiG-29K fighter jets operating from the carrier are conducting round-the-clock Combat Air Patrols (CAP) over the western seaboard.
- Defense Exam Relevance: Naval Deployments (CDS/NDA), Maritime Security
Source Link: Indian Navy – Operation Sankalp Updates
- Q1. Which of the following best describes a ‘Carrier Strike Group’ (CSG) in naval warfare?
- A) A fleet consisting exclusively of nuclear-powered submarines.
- B) An operational formation centered around an aircraft carrier, escorted by destroyers, cruisers, and submarines.
- C) A squadron of maritime patrol aircraft used for anti-submarine warfare.
- D) A defensive perimeter of land-based anti-ship missiles protecting a naval base.
