In a significant leadership transition at the Naval Base in Visakhapatnam, Rear Admiral Alok Ananda, YSM, officially took command as the Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Fleet (FOCEF) from Rear Admiral Susheel Menon, VSM. This ceremonial parade reflected the Indian Navy’s long-standing traditions of professionalism, continuity, and camaraderie, and was attended by officers, sailors, and families associated with the Eastern Fleet.
Rear Admiral Alok Ananda joined the Indian Navy in July 1993 and is a distinguished alumnus of the Naval Academy, the Defence Services Staff College (DSSC) in Wellington, and the National Defence College in Thailand. His extensive background, particularly in Navigation and Direction, has equipped him for a range of key operational and staff roles throughout his naval career.
Notable command positions held by Rear Admiral Ananda include leading INS Satpura, a frontline stealth frigate, and INS Ghorpad, an amphibious warfare vessel. His experience in these roles underscores his expertise and leadership abilities, which he brings to the command of the Eastern Fleet.
Prior to this recent appointment, Rear Admiral Ananda served as the Assistant Chief of Naval Staff for Policy and Plans at Naval Headquarters in New Delhi. In this capacity, he played a crucial role in shaping strategic initiatives and formulating policies that contribute to the long-term developmental goals of the Indian Navy.
The Eastern Fleet, based in Visakhapatnam and part of the Eastern Naval Command, plays an essential role in projecting India’s maritime power in the Bay of Bengal and the wider Indo-Pacific region. The fleet is responsible for safeguarding national maritime interests, ensuring control over sea routes, and promoting international naval cooperation. Its operational activities include extensive deployments, participation in bilateral and multilateral exercises, and missions aimed at providing humanitarian assistance.
The change of command ceremony not only marks a new chapter for the Eastern Fleet but also reinforces the Indian Navy’s commitment to maintaining naval readiness and fostering peace and stability in the region.
