The Indian Navy will increase its fleet strength by acquiring several ships, submarines and aircraft besides developing infrastructure to ensure that by the end of the decade it would be a force to reckon with, Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Arun Prakash, said on Wednesday.
Addressing the Naval personnel in Kochi after inspecting a 50-man 'Nishan Guard' (Guard of Honour with the President's colours) and the 36 platoons on parade, he said what was significant was that most of these acquisitions would have about 90 per cent indigenous component.
He also spoke on the 'Networking of the Navy' which will facilitate all naval units to share information using computer and satellite once the project is completed.
The Naval chief also spoke about the various threats at sea like piracy, gun running and the need for the Navy to be strong and powerful to counter such threats.
Earlier, arriving for the parade after laying a wreath at the war memorial, he was received by Vice Admiral JS Bedi, Flag officer Commanding in Chief Southern Naval command.
Admiral Arun Prakash, who was on a two-day farewell visit to Kochi, later left for Mumbai along with his wife, Kumkum Prakash.
The parade ground reverberated with three 'Jai's' for Admiral Arun Prakash by those on parade which was a deviation from the laid down practice.