In a significant leadership transition within the Indian Navy, Vice Admiral Susheel Menon has officially assumed the role of Chief of Staff at the Headquarters Eastern Naval Command (HQENC). This appointment follows his recent tenure as the Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Fleet (FOCEF), where he was instrumental in bolstering the operational readiness and maritime capabilities of the Navy along the eastern seaboard.
Vice Admiral Menon brings over three decades of distinguished service to his new position. As an alumnus of the National Defence Academy (NDA), he was commissioned into the Indian Navy in 1992. His expertise as a Gunnery and Missiles Specialist has been honed through numerous operational, training, and staff roles over his extensive career.
Throughout his tenure, he commanded several prestigious Indian naval warships, including IN Ships TRV-71, Kirpan, Kolkata, and the Aircraft Carrier INS Vikramaditya, which is recognized as one of the Navy’s most formidable assets. His role as Flag Officer Sea Training (FOST) emphasized his commitment to enhancing combat efficiency and readiness throughout the fleet.
Vice Admiral Menon’s academic background is equally impressive. He graduated from the Naval Command and Staff College in Jakarta, Indonesia, and the Naval War College in Rhode Island, USA. This international exposure has enriched his understanding of global naval doctrines and strategic studies, further contributing to his strategic leadership capabilities within the Indian Navy.
In recognition of his exemplary service, Vice Admiral Menon was awarded the Vishisht Seva Medal (VSM) in 2019. His leadership exemplifies the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and dedication, reflective of the core values of the Indian Navy.
As Chief of Staff at HQENC, Vice Admiral Menon is set to play a crucial role in commanding key operational, administrative, and strategic initiatives for the Eastern Naval Command, often referred to as the Eastern Sword or Sunrise Fleet. His appointment underscores the Navy’s dedication to maintaining maritime dominance and safeguarding India’s interests within the crucial Indo-Pacific region.
