Joint Doctrine for Amphibious Operations released today

New Delhi, Sept 9 (ANI): Chairman Chiefs of Staff Committee and Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Sureesh Mehta released the "Joint Doctrine for Amphibious Operations" in New Delhi today.

The doctrine is meant to serve as a guideline on how Armed Forces intend to plan and conduct these operations and achieve full synergistic effect of joint combat power. It lays down the commonality between the three services, for the smooth conduct of amphibious operations.

The Joint Doctrine had been under preparation since 2004. Lessons learnt during the joint amphibious exercises, conducted since 2004, have been incorporated in the doctrine. Chief of Army Staff General Deepak Kapoor, Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal F.H. Major, Chief of Integrated Defence Staff Lt Gen HS Lidder and other senior officials of the three forces were also present on the occasion.

Indian defence forces have been moving in the direction of integration. Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff has made great strides since its inception, in streamlining some of the joint aspects, be it training, operations, 'financial planning, budgeting and overseeing the tri-Service institutions of the defence forces. A number of joint doctrines and orders, instructions have also been promulgated.

One of the oldest Signal Regiments of the Indian Army, the "1st Army Headquarters Signal Regiment" has always been in the forefront to promote the spirit of adventure.

The Regiment is now organizing a unique desert trekking expedition in the great Thar Desert from 09 September- 03 October.

Led by Colonel Vivek Dogra the 17 member team will attempt to cover more than 480 kms of desert stretch by trekking on foot, an attempt, considered by people as extremely challenging in the sandy camel country of Thar.

Amongst the team members is Subedar Jagmail Singh a leg amputee, who lost his leg during Sri Lanka operations whose steely determination will be a constant source of motivation for everyone.

The proposed expedition besides trekking and exploring the desert flora and fauna also has an important aim of showcasing the unique versatility of Corps of Signals and the Indian Army to the people inhabiting remote hamlets of the desert.

The chief patron of the expedition, Lieutenant General P. Mohapatra, Signal-Officer-in-Chief and Colonel Commandant of Corps of Signals alongwith with patrons Major General T.K. Das and Brig Ajay Kohli of Army Headquarter Signals flagged off the expedition from the historic India Gate lawns today. (ANI)