BY :ZEE NEWS

Vice Admiral S K Damle took over as the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Southern Naval Command from Vice Admiral J S Bedi at a ceremonial parade held at the naval base here today.

The Admiral, who was received by Vice Admiral J S Bedi, inspected a 50-men Guard of Honour with President's Colours and the 18 platoons on parade, commanded by Cdr Atul Nag.

He was introduced to the Flag Officers and Commanding Officers of Ships and Establishments of the Command after which the outgoing Commander-in-Chief, Vice Admiral Bedi took the salute as the platoons advanced in 'Review Order'.

Commissioned into the Indian Navy on December 19, 1970, Admiral Damle joined the fighter stream in the Fleet Air Arm (Naval Aviation) after initial training with the Indian Air Force.

He has flown various types of aircraft in the Navy and Air Force, including the Carrier-borne 'Sea Harrier'.

A qualified Flying Instructor, he headed the Carrier-borne fighter squadron 'INAS 300' Squadron (White Tigers) and commanded the Naval Air Station, INS Hansa at Goa.

Vice Admiral Damle, during his Navy career, has commanded the missile corvetter 'INS Hosdurg', missile frigate 'INS Gomati' and the aircraft carrier 'INS Viraat'.