Vice-Admiral Girish Luthra took over as the new Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Western Naval Command from Vice Admiral Sunil Lanba at a ceremonial parade here on Monday.Vice Admiral Lanba, 58, who has been promoted to four-star rank, is scheduled to take over as the new Chief of Naval Staff in New Delhi from outgoing Admiral R.K. Dhowan, who will attain superannuation on Tuesday.Officers of the WNC accorded Vice-Admiral Lanba a warm farewell accompanied by the traditional 'Pulling Out' ceremony at INS Shikra here.Addressing the naval personnel, Vice Admiral Lanba lauded their contributions, notwithstanding the constraints of the service, in working with synergy and team work to ensure ships, submarines and aircraft are maintained in a high state of combat readiness always.
Recipient of the Param Vishisht Seva Medal and Ati Vishisht Seva Medals, he said in view of the fragile maritime environment of the region, there is a need to be ever-vigilant in all quarters and on all fronts.Vice Admiral Lanba said he had no doubts that fire power from units of fleet, flotillas and squadrons can be delivered appropriately in case the need arose.Referring to the International Fleet Review in February 2016, he said the participation of 50 countries at the event clearly indicates the growing statue of India in the region.Many countries have expressed their desire to cooperate and conduct exercises with the Indian Navy which is indicative of professionalism, training and sound culture displayed by the service.Vice Admiral Lanba urged the need to continue working together to bring change and work smartly.