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Importance of A&N Islands:
- These islands are strategically crucial as they oversee one of the world’s busiest sea lanes, connecting the South China Sea with the Indian Ocean through the Strait of Malacca, essential for trade and oil shipments in the Indo-Pacific region.
- Tri-Service Command: The Andaman and Nicobar Command (ANC), established in 2001, is India’s first and only tri-service command, coordinating the Army, Navy, and Air Force in the region.
Cause of Defence Infra Development:
- This development is in part a response to China’s efforts to expand its influence in the region, notably with military facilities on Myanmar’s Coco Islands near the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Infrastructure Developments:
- Surveillance infrastructure enhancement on a northern island.
- Extension of airstrips for bigger aircraft like P8Is and fighter jets.
- Jetty expansion for larger ships.
- Road improvements for increased traffic flow.
- Air Force station upgrade for fighter squadrons, including runway expansion.
- Construction of a container transhipment terminal.
Other key Initiatives:
- Inauguration of modern hangar and dispersal system at INS Utkrosh.
- Introduction of Precision Approach Radar (PAR) and an Integrated Underwater Harbour Defence and Surveillance System at INS Utkrosh.
- Opening of Naval Communication Network (NCN) Centres at INS Kohassa, INS Baaz, and INS Kardi to boost communication and operational capabilities.
- Enhanced Surveillance Efforts:
- The National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC) asked to increase manpower for satellite imagery analysis to improve surveillance of inhabited islands in the Andaman and Nicobar archipelago and Lakshadweep.
- A Multi-Agency Maritime Security Group (MAMSG)-Policy meeting focused on surveillance of uninhabited islands, involving officials from coastal security, Navy, and NRSC.
Why in News:
- The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are undergoing significant military infrastructure enhancements, including airfields, jetties, logistic facilities, troop habitats, and surveillance infrastructure.
