Sri Vijaya Puram | 04 January 2026
Tarun Karthick
Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan, PVSM, UYSM, AVSM, SM, VSM, ADC, inaugurated a newly redeveloped strategic runway at Air Force Station Car Nicobar during his two-day visit to the Andaman and Nicobar Command (ANC), underscoring India’s focus on strengthening defence infrastructure in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
General Chauhan arrived in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands on January 2 to review the operational role of the Andaman and Nicobar Command, assess the progress of critical infrastructure development, and strengthen joint synergy in the strategically vital island territory.
On his arrival at Air Force Station Car Nicobar—one of the most crucial operational airbases in the island chain—the CDS was received by Vice Admiral Ajay Kochhar, AVSM, NM, Commander-in-Chief, Andaman and Nicobar Command, and Air Commodore Kamal Chadha, Air Officer Commanding, Air Force Component Headquarters.
The inauguration of the redeveloped runway, along with associated upgraded aviation infrastructure, marks a significant milestone in enhancing the operational capability of the islands. The upgraded runway will substantially augment air operations, including the operation of fighter aircraft, and improve the induction, housing, and sustenance of frontline combat assets, thereby enhancing India’s air power projection in the region.
In addition, the CDS inaugurated an expanded aviation fuel storage facility at Car Nicobar. The enhanced fuel infrastructure is expected to significantly extend the operational range and endurance of aircraft, enabling rapid deployment, sustained air presence, and higher mission readiness during contingencies.
Apart from its military utility, the upgraded aviation infrastructure will also support the Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS–UDAN), facilitating improved civil air connectivity to remote island areas. It will further strengthen Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) capabilities by enabling swift mobilisation of men and material during natural disasters and emergencies in the earthquake- and tsunami-prone region and adjoining areas.
During the course of his visit, General Chauhan reviewed the overall operational preparedness of the Andaman and Nicobar Command, ongoing infrastructure projects, and the level of integration among Army, Navy, Air Force and Coast Guard. He emphasised the importance of seamless coordination and joint operations to enhance surveillance, deterrence, and rapid response capabilities in the strategically sensitive maritime domain.
Addressing personnel of the Andaman and Nicobar Command, the CDS commended them for their professionalism, high state of readiness, and unwavering commitment to safeguarding national interests in the island territories. Highlighting the unique strategic importance of the command, he urged all ranks to continue fostering jointness, adaptability, and operational excellence while remaining prepared to respond swiftly to emerging security challenges.
Reiterating the strategic significance of island territories, General Chauhan said that these initiatives are critical for the protection of India’s sovereign territorial waters and the safeguarding of national maritime interests. The visit reflects the Government of India’s sustained emphasis on modernising dual-use defence infrastructure, enhancing operational capabilities, while ensuring that security enhancement and development of the islands progress hand in hand.
