'We Can Match China In The Indian Ocean Region'

China has begun one of the largest naval expansions by any country since the end of the Second World War. In this exclusive interview, Admiral Sunil Lanba, Chairman, Chiefs of StaffCommittee, and Chief of Naval Staff, tells Executive Editor Sandeep Unnithan that the Indian navy is fully prepared to meet the Chinese threat

- Sandeep Unnithan

Q. How have the foundational agreements, Communication and Information on Security Memorandum of Agreement (CISMOA) and Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement (LEMOA), signed by India benefitted the forces?

LEMOA is a foundational agreement between India and the US, which facilitates exchange of logistics between militaries of the two nations. The agreement reduces procedures, permissions and paperwork involved during port call of ships, joint operations, refuelling, peacekeeping operations, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR), etc. It allows the three services to utilise the bases for rest, repair and refuelling, thereby enhancing efficiency. The Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement (COMCASA) facilitates India’s utilisation of the US-based encryption technology for communication, instead of using vulnerable commercial communication. In addition, sensors and equipment onboard can be upgraded and would be on par with those operated by the US. Both agreements facilitate greater synergy and interoperability between the Indian and the US navies. The navy has been fuelling with US tankers in the Pacific and Indian Ocean. It enhances our range and reach and is also a cost-effective means of deployment because you don’t need to do an operational turnaround in ports.

Q. What is the status of the third foundational agreement, Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement for Geospatial Cooperation (BECA), which is yet to be signed?

The agreement provides for ‘no cost’ exchange of controlled geospatial products, data and services. The Indian military will have access to the US military standards navigation and mission planning systems that will benefit airborne surveillance. The agreement is under examination by stakeholders.

Q. What is the scope of the upcoming tri-services exercise with the US?