First in Asia, P8I training simulator complex inaugurated at INS Rajali

New Delhi: Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane inaugurated 'Ashok Roy Training Simulator Complex' (ARTSC) at INS Rajali on April 25, 2023. The Complex houses a state-of-the-art simulator for training requirements of P8I aircrew and technical team aimed towards safe operation and maintenance of the aircraft. 

The P8I training simulator complex facility significantly contributes towards improved training standards and reduction of training requirements on actual aircraft, thereby ensuring higher availability of aircraft for operational missions. The aircrew can practice emergencies such as Engine Failure/ Fire, Rapid Decompression, Reject Take Off since these can be easily simulated for honing flying skills, which cannot be practiced in actual flying missions.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by Vice Admiral Biswajit Dasgupta, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Naval Command and Vice Admiral Sanjay Jasjit Singh Vice Chief of Naval Staff. The function was also attended by family members of Lt Cdr Ashok Roy.

Indian Navy inducted state-of-the-art Boeing P8I aircraft in 2013 and have since flown over 40,000 hrs in a decade. Designed for Long Range Maritime Reconnaissance (LRMR), Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW), Anti Surface Warfare (ASuW) and Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) missions, the aircraft plays a crucial role as eyes of the Indian Navy, in the vast expanse of IOR, whilst undertaking critical maritime operations.

The training simulator complex is named as 'Ashok Roy Training Simulator Complex' (ARTSC) to commemorate distinguished service rendered by Lieutenant Commander Ashok Roy, Vir Chakra (VrC), Nausena Medal (NM) during gallant action in the 1971 Indo Pak war. 

The airbase is now home to a long range maritime reconnaissance and anti-submarine warfare squadron, INAS 312 and Helicopter Training School, INAS 561.

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