New VLF Station: A Game-Changer for Indian Navy’s Maritime Dominance
Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh Lays Foundation Stone for Indian Navy’s New VLF Station
In a significant boost to India’s naval capabilities, Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh laid the foundation stone for a new Very Low Frequency (VLF) Station of the Indian Navy at the Damagundam Reserve Forest site in Vikarabad, Telangana. The facility, being built at a cost of Rs 3,200 crore, will span across 2,900 acres.
“During crisis management, a clear communication channel is the key. It becomes even more necessary when the situation is dynamic and the response time is very less. These things are historically proven. We’re learning from the past and striving for future security and prosperity,” said Defence Minister
Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi has hailed the new Very Low Frequency (VLF) station as a game-changer for the Indian Navy’s communication capabilities. This cutting-edge facility will ensure a secure, robust, responsive, and reliable command, control, and communication network across the oceans, marking a new chapter in the Navy’s communication prowess.
The VLF station will complement the existing station at INS Kattabomman in Tirunelveli, enhancing the Navy’s ability to communicate seamlessly and securely worldwide, including with submerged submarines. This will significantly boost the submarines’ stealth and effectiveness.
“This VLF station would play an important role in enabling seamless secure worldwide communication, including most importantly, with our dived submarines, thus ensuring their stealth and enhanced effectiveness,” Admiral Tripathi said. “May it stand tall, as a testament to the strength and standing of our nation today, and the unwavering commitment of our Navy to protect and promote our National Maritime Interests – Anytime, Anywhere, Anyhow.”
As the head of the Indian Navy, Admiral Tripathi’s vision for the VLF station aligns with the government’s focus on building a strong and self-reliant defense ecosystem. The station’s strategic importance underscores the Navy’s commitment to safeguarding national interests and promoting maritime security.
The VLF station will bolster the Indian Navy’s operational readiness, ensuring effective command and control capabilities in challenging maritime environments. It will play a pivotal role in strengthening the Naval communication infrastructure, enabling reliable and secure transmission over long distances.
This strategic investment is expected to contribute to the local economy by generating employment opportunities for both skilled and unskilled workers during its construction phase and once operational.
Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh emphasized the importance of empowering the Indian Navy, particularly in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). By investing in cutting-edge technology and infrastructure, India aims to secure its strategic interests and maintain peace in the region, demonstrating the government’s commitment to building a strong and self-reliant defence ecosystem.
The Indian Navy’s expanding role as a first responder and preferred security partner in the IOR underscores the need for advanced communication systems. The VLF station will be a critical asset in supporting the Navy’s operations and ensuring national security.
