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| INS Teg (File Photo) |
Indian Naval Ship Teg, a multi-role Frigate, today affiliated with the Sikh Light Infantry Regiment, in a solemn ceremony held onboard INS Teg at the Naval Dockyard, Mumbai. 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. This is in conformity with the ongoing practice wherein, twenty five Regiments of the Indian Army are 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.
Joint Guard of Honour was presented to the Army Chief Gen Bikram Singh. Commemorating the occasion, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Naval Command stated that the emerging nature of warfare, demanded synergy through jointness and integration. This unique and enduring partnership would foster espirit de corps, camaraderie and catalyse the combat potential of the two services.
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. He underscored the importance of joint operations and stated that there was renewed emphasis on a joint approach by the three services for success in operations. He concluded by saying that the ‘raison d’etre’ of affiliation between fighting forces was to act as a force multiplier by promoting better understanding of each other’s strengths, service ethos, customs and traditions. 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.