Eastern Naval Command witnesses ceremonial transition as RAdm Rajesh Dhankhar assumes fleet command

In a ceremonial change of command, Rear Admiral Rajesh Dhankhar assumed leadership of the Eastern Fleet, the pivotal force of the Eastern Naval Command, relieving Rear Admiral Gurcharan Singh. The transition unfolded with grandeur at Naval Dockyard, Visakhapatnam, showcasing the continuity of maritime leadership.

Commissioned into the Indian Navy in 1990, RAdm Rajesh Dhankhar brings a wealth of experience as a Navigation & Direction specialist. His extensive training at the Naval Academy, Defence Services Staff College, and Higher Command Course in Japan underscores his commitment to excellence. With a remarkable career spanning 33 years, he has commanded various warships, including INS Delhi, INS Gharial, and INS Vikramaditya, demonstrating versatile leadership. 

Strategic appointments and gallantry 

RAdm Dhankhar's journey includes pivotal staff and operational roles, contributing significantly to the Directorate of Naval Plans and Directorate of Personnel. Notably, his leadership during Non-Combatant Evacuation Operations in Yemen earned him the prestigious Nao Sena Medal (Gallantry) in 2015, highlighting his dedication and valor. 

Eastern Fleet's Stellar Performance Under RAdm Gurcharan Singh - Over the past 11 months, under the command of RAdm Gurcharan Singh, the Eastern Fleet maintained an exceptional level of combat readiness. Engaging in Mission Based and operational deployments, the Fleet actively participated in bilateral and multilateral engagements with friendly foreign navies, upholding India's maritime interests. 

Eastern Fleet: The Sunrise Sword Arm 

The Eastern Fleet, known as the 'Sword Arm' of the Eastern Naval Command and dubbed the Sunrise Fleet, holds its headquarters at Visakhapatnam. Constituted on 1 November 1971, the Fleet, under the leadership of Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Fleet (FOCEF), is responsible for naval forces in the Bay of Bengal and parts of the Indian Ocean.  

Originally formed in 1971 with INS Vikrant as its flagship, the Eastern Fleet played a pivotal role in naval operations. Notably, during Operation Talwar in 1999, elements of the Eastern Fleet, joining forces with the Western Fleet, executed strategic blockades and patrols, revealing the fleet's crucial role in shaping geopolitical dynamics. As Rear Admiral Rajesh Dhankhar takes the helm, the Eastern Fleet stands poised to continue its legacy of excellence, ensuring maritime security and strategic prowess in the dynamic Indo-Pacific region.