SOURCE: AFI
India’s strategic defenses in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands (ANI) have received a significant boost with the recent upgrade of INS Utkrosh. This naval air station, which plays a vital role in supporting Veer Savarkar International Airport (VSI Airport), has been equipped with new advanced landing systems.
The collaborative efforts of the Indian Navy and the Airports Authority of India (AAI) have resulted in the installation of a new Advanced Landing Guidance System (AFLS), Precision Approach Path Indicator (PAPI), and a Cat II Approach Lighting System at INS Utkrosh. These advancements, coupled with the existing Instrument Landing System (ILS) by the AAI, effectively transform Port Blair Airport into a Precision Instrument Runway.
This upgraded infrastructure empowers aircraft to execute safe landings during nighttime and even in low-visibility conditions. Consequently, VSI Airport transitions into a true all-weather airfield, capable of uninterrupted operations throughout the year.
The improved accessibility of Port Blair Airport is expected to provide a significant fillip to tourism in the breathtaking Andaman and Nicobar Islands, often referred to as the “Emerald Islands.” Tourists can now plan their getaways with greater ease, irrespective of seasonal limitations.
Beyond tourism, the upgrade strengthens INS Utkrosh’s strategic importance. As a crucial Indian naval air station under the Andaman and Nicobar Command (ANC), it plays a pivotal role in monitoring the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), specifically the movement of Chinese warships. This enhanced capability bolsters India’s defense posture in the strategically sensitive region.