Andaman and Nicobar Command (ANC) conducted a large-scale Joint Military Exercise ‘Ex KAVACH’ involving the assets of the Army, Navy, Air Force and Coast Guard. The exercise, which began on February 23, 2023, concluded on April 07, 2023.
‘Ex Kavach’ was conducted under the aegis of the Andaman and Nicobar Command (ANC).
The ANC is the first integrated theatre command in India with its headquarters in Port Blair.
The joint forces carried out multi-domain exercises including amphibious landing, air-landed operations, heliborne operations and rapid insertion of Special Forces.
It showcased a coordinated approach to surveillance, networked and synergized operations, aimed at achieving greater interoperability.
In 2021, a similar large-scale joint-services amphibious exercise AMPHEX – 21 was conducted in the Andaman and Nicobar group of islands between January 21 and 25 and Ex KAVACH formed a part of it.
The exercise involved participation of Naval ships, amphibious troops of the Army and different types of aircraft from the Air force.
Significance
‘Exercise KAVACH’ demonstrated the capabilities and preparedness of the Armed Forces to safeguard India's maritime interests and ensure the security of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The exercise effectively showcased the professionalism and synergy amongst the different components of ANC while conducting successful joint operations in a complex and dynamic environment.
Other Exercises for Coastal Security:
o Exercise ‘Sea Vigil’.
o Tropex (Theatre-level Readiness Operational Exercise) which Indian Navy conducts every two years.
Key Takeaways
- Participation in Ex KAVACH: Indian Army, Indian Navy, Indian Air Force and Indian Coast Guard.
