The Indian Navy’s Ilyushin-38 Sea Dragon Long Range Maritime Patrol aircraft bid farewell after 46 years of glorious service to the nation. The decommissioning ceremony was held on October 31, 2023 at INS Hansa, Dabolim. The Chief of the Naval Staff, dignitaries, and veteran officers and sailors of the IL-38 squadron graced the event with families, reminiscing about the yeoman service.

INAS 315 was commissioned on October 1, 1977 with the induction of IL-38 aircraft heralding a modern era of airborne Long Range Maritime Reconnaissance and Anti-Submarine Warfare in the Navy. With its unique capabilities, striking prowess and extended reach covering the vast Indian Ocean region, the IL-38 SD has over the years proven itself to be a formidable force multiplier.

The De-induction ceremony of IL-38 SD marks the end of a glorious era that heralded path-breaking capabilities in Maritime Reconnaissance and Anti-Submarine Warfare operations.