The INAS 318 is an Indian naval air squadron based at INS Utkrosh, Port Blair.[3]

INAS 318
Active10 March 1984 - present[1]
Country India
BranchIndian Navy seal Indian Navy
Garrison/HQINS Utkrosh, Port Blair
Nickname(s)The Hawks
Aircraft flown
PatrolDornier Do-228[2]

History

edit

INAS 318 was commissioned on 10 March 1984. Lt Cdr J S Dhillon was the first Squadron Commander. The squadron was initially equipped with Islander aircraft which have been replaced by Dorniers subsequently. The squadron is based at INS Utkrosh, Port Blair. The squadron's primary task is maritime reconnaissance and patrol. The squadron has been doing a laudable job of maintaining vigil around the far-flung outposts of the Andamans and has participated in many anti poaching and anti smuggling operations. The squadron contributes in great measure to the Navy's policy of ‘Look East’ and with the formation of the new integrated command at Port Blair these aircraft are important assets in order to keep the pirate infested Malacca Straits under constant surveillance.[4]

References

edit
  1. ^ "INAS 318 – The Hawks". Indian Navy. Retrieved 27 December 2014.
  2. ^ "Indian Naval Air Squadrons". Indian Navy. Archived from the original on 26 December 2014. Retrieved 27 December 2014.
  3. ^ "Indian Naval Air Squadron (INAS) 318". Global Security. Retrieved 27 December 2014.
  4. ^ "DORNIER | Indian Navy". indiannavy.nic.in. Retrieved 6 May 2016.