Inter-services affiliation 'would maximise combat potential' : Gen Bikram Singh

Kolkata: Indian Naval Ship Teg a multi-role Frigate Thursday affiliated with the Sikh Light Infantry Regiment at the Naval Dockyard, Mumbai to maximise the combat potential of the Indian Armed Forces, a release from Indian Ministry of defence said.

 “An ‘Affiliation’ between any two units of different services is aimed at enhancing ‘jointness’ and synergy between the services to better meet the ever changing dynamics of modern warfare,” said the release.

It also said it was in conformity with the ongoing practice and 25 Indian Army regiments were already affiliated to various ships of the Navy.

“The Charter of Affiliation was signed by Commandant of the Sikh Light Infantry Regimental Centre and Commanding Officer of INS Teg, in the presence of Army Chief and Colonel of the Sikh Light Infantry Regiment, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Naval Command and Flag Officer Commanding Western Fleet,” it said.

A joint guard of honour was presented to Army Chief Gen Bikram Singh.

“This unique and enduring partnership would foster espirit de corps, camaraderie and catalyse the combat potential of the two services,” said Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Naval Command, adding that the emerging nature of warfare, demanded synergy through jointness and integration.

Gen Singh termed the affiliation of the Sikh Light Infantry Regiment with INS Teg as historic, as both the units symbolised the ‘Cutting Edge’ of their respective forces.

“This unique bonding would enable sharing of new operational concepts and maximise the combat potential of the Indian Armed Forces at the time of reckoning,” he said.