Why in News
IL – 38 decommissioned after its 46 years of journey.
The IL-38 Sea Dragon heralded long-range maritime surveillance aircraft.
IL – 38s
The IL-38 Sea Dragon is a Russian-built long-range maritime reconnaissance aircraft.
It was developed by the Soviet Union in the 1960s and entered service in 1968.
Key features include:
Capable to remain in the sea for long periods of time.
A powerful radar and sonar system, allowing it to detect surface and underwater activities.
An elaborate weapons system, including torpedoes, bombs and missiles.
IL – 38 and India
India began purchasing IL-38 Sea Dragon in the 1970s.
India purchased a total of 12 IL-38 aircraft, which became a significant part of the Indian Navy's fleet.
The Indian Navy uses the IL-38 Sea Dragon for anti-submarine warfare, maritime reconnaissance and search and rescue.
The induction of IL-38 Sea Dragon into the Indian Navy fleet has significantly improved India's maritime security.
INS Hansa
INS Hansa, is an Indian naval air station located near Dabolim in Goa.
It is India's biggest naval airbase.
The military air base has a civil enclave, that operates as Dabolim Airport.
P-8Is
The P-8I is a long-range maritime patrol aircraft based on the Boeing 737 airliner.
It is equipped with a variety of sensors, including a powerful radar, electro-optical/infrared sensors.
INS Hansa
P-8Is
Attached with a magnetic anomaly detector.
The P-8I can also carry a variety of weapons, including torpedoes, depth charges, and anti-ship missiles.
C-295
The C-295 is a medium-range transport aircraft manufactured by Airbus Defence and Space.
It is a versatile aircraft that can be used for a variety of missions,
Tactical transport of troops and cargo
Paratroop dropping
Medical evacuation
Maritime patrol
Search and rescue
The Indian Air Force (IAF) is currently procuring 56 C-295 aircraft.
The first C-295 aircraft was delivered to the IAF in September 2023.
The remaining aircraft will be delivered over the next few years.
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