Indian Navy to de-induct TU142M Long Range Maritime Patrol aircraft

The Indian Navy is preparing for de-induction of TU142M Long Range Maritime Patrol aircraft after 29 years of dedicated service to the nation.The aircraft would be formally de-inducted by Admiral Sunil Lanba, Chief of the Naval Staff at a ceremony to be held at INS Rajali, Tamil Nadu on Wednesday. 

Defence Ministry in a release said, the aircraft has done the Indian Navy proud by participating in all major naval exercises and operations with distinction. The aircraft saw action during



operation ‘Cactus’ in Maldives and participated in operational missions off Sri Lanka to provide airborne surveillance.

The aircraft with its four powerful engines and swept wings is the fastest turboprop aircraft in the world and reportedly has been difficult to intercept by fighters. The Ministry said, with its enhanced endurance, speed, long range weapons and sensors the aircraft transformed the aspects of Maritime Reconnaissance and airborne Anti-submarine warfare for the Indian Navy.