Tarun Karthick
Port Blair, 23 November 2023
In a display of exceptional leadership, Air Marshal Saju Balakrishnan, AVSM, VM, the Commander-in-Chief of the Andaman and Nicobar Command (CINCAN), flew on a maritime strike mission aboard the formidable Sukhoi Su-30 MKI during Operation Dweep Shakti.
The Andaman and Nicobar Command released pictures showcasing CINCAN in the rear cockpit of the Su-30 MKI, a twin-seater fighter jet known for its advanced capabilities. This aircraft boasts a tandem glass cockpit accommodating two pilots, equipped with state-of-the-art technology. The forward cockpit features an integrated avionics suite that incorporates the Elbit Su 967 head-up display (HUD), seven active-matrix liquid crystal displays (AMLCD), and primary cockpit instrumentation from Thales. Additionally, the HAL-built aircraft is equipped with multifunction displays (MFD) supplied by Samtel Display Systems and integrates a sophisticated fly-by-wire (FBW) flight control system. A prominent monochromatic display screen in the rear cockpit aids in air-to-ground missile guidance. Notably, the Su-30MKI also features advanced radar systems, including the N011M passive electronically scanned array radar, OLS-30 laser-optical locator system, and Litening target designation pod, facilitating precise air-to-surface missile and laser-guided munition guidance.
Air Marshal Saju Balakrishnan brings a wealth of experience to this role, having excelled as a fighter combat leader and experimental test pilot. His distinguished career includes commanding No. 32 Squadron operating the MiG-21 Bison and leading as the first commanding officer of No. 50 Squadron with AWACS aircraft. He held significant roles such as Air Officer Commanding of 32 Wing at the Jodhpur sector in the South Western Air Command and completed the staff course at the Royal College of Defence Studies, United Kingdom. Advancing through positions of responsibility, he served as the Assistant Chief of Integrated Defence Staff, ACIDS (Pers Plans & Force) and later as the Assistant Chief of Air Staff, Air Defence, New Delhi. Promoted to Air Marshal on March 8, 2022, he served as the Senior Air Staff Officer of the Training Command until April 30, 2023, before assuming the role of Commander-in-Chief, Andaman and Nicobar Command on May 1, 2023, succeeding Lieutenant General Ajai Singh.
CINCAN’s active participation in Exercise Dweep Shakti underscores the commitment to operational readiness and strategic capabilities within the Andaman and Nicobar Command, reinforcing its position in maritime defence and security.