Thiruvananthapuram’s Shankhumugham coast turned into a live stage for the Navy’s power and precision. The display unfolded in front of President Droupadi Murmu and underlined the strategic value of the coastline and the wider security potential it offers the country.
Nineteen naval platforms took part, including warships such as INS Imphal, INS Udaygiri, INS Kolkata and INS Kamal, along with sailing vessels like Tarangini and Sudarshini, missile boats and a submarine. From the deck of INS Vikrant, MiG fighters roared into the sky, joined by helicopter air lifting drills and paragliding routines that highlighted the force’s skill, speed and technical depth. The P8I long range anti submarine aircraft, MiGs, Hawks and multiple helicopters added to the spectacle above the water.
Out in the choppy sea, teams carried out search and seizure operations, helicopter insertion of commandos and evacuation demos. The Southern Naval Command’s musical band, a continuity drill and a horn and pipe dance by sea cadets added a different flavour to the event. Cultural performances that showcased Kerala’s heritage opened the celebration, and the evening ended with warships lighting up the coastline in a striking formation.
The President arrived from the airport in the evening and received a salute from MH 60R helicopters. INS Imphal, INS Udaygiri, INS Kamal and INS Kolkata joined together to honour her. Marine commandos parachuted down and presented a gift. The President watched the full series of aerial and naval manoeuvres that underscored the strength and discipline of the force.
Governor Arif Mohammed Khan, Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, Union Minister of State for Tourism Suresh Gopi, Union Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth, Southern Naval Commander Vice Admiral Sameer Saxena and Chief Secretary Dr A Jayathilak were among those present to witness the event.
