Adding to the naval infrastructure along the coast, a new base of the Indian Navy -- INS Sardar Patel -- was commissioned here on Saturday.According to a statement by the navy, this Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Gujarat and the headquarters of the naval officer-in-charge (Gujarat, Diu and Daman) would also enhance the logistical support being provided to the Indian Navy units deployed in the northern Arabian Sea, including along the International Maritime Boundary Line with Pakistan."The events of 26/11 have added a new dimension to the coastal security construct, which has enhanced responsibility, and need for continued naval presence in this area.
"The commissioning of INS Sardar Patel and augmentation of infrastructure and assets will provide the necessary impetus to meet this role," the statement said.The base was commissioned by Gujarat Chief Minister Anandiben Patel and Indian Navy chief Admiral R.K. Dhowan.Vice Admiral S.P.S. Cheema, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Western Naval Command, and other senior naval officers were also present."With high maritime component and considerable industrial infrastructure on the seafront, Gujarat is vulnerable from sea not only during hostilities but also during peacetime," the statement said."The base, located at a key position on the Gujarat coast, will enable the Indian Navy to qualitatively augment its infrastructure and organisational effectiveness in the state, which would improve coordination and synergy with other maritime agencies of the government," it said.Gujarat has a 1,600 km coastline interspersed with 43 ports.