In a significant affirmation of the evolving collaborative efforts among India’s military branches, Air Marshal Surat Singh, the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Eastern Air Command, visited INS Vikrant on January 18, 2026. This visit comes at a time when the Indian Armed Forces are enhancing their focus on joint operations and integrated warfighting strategies.
The Air Marshal received comprehensive briefings on INS Vikrant’s cutting-edge combat systems and capabilities. These discussions highlighted the aircraft carrier’s role in maritime air operations and its vital function in power projection and maintaining sea control within the Indian Ocean Region. The operational readiness of INS Vikrant was underscored as a crucial element of India’s defence capability.
During his interaction with naval personnel aboard the carrier, Air Marshal Surat Singh expressed his admiration for the exemplary professionalism and preparedness observed among the crew. He emphasized the necessity of tight coordination between the Indian Air Force and the Indian Navy, particularly in the face of emerging multi-domain threats that require a unified response.
This visit served to reinforce the commitment of the Indian Armed Forces to joint operational principles and integrated planning, enhancing the nation’s defence posture in both air and maritime domains. The collaborative spirit demonstrated during this engagement reflects a strategic alignment that is essential for addressing contemporary security challenges in the region.












