Kochi: Vice Admiral Sameer Saxena took over as the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief (FOC-in-C) of the Southern Naval Command (SNC) today. He succeeds Vice Admiral V. Srinivas, PVSM, AVSM, NM, who superannuated after an illustrious career spanning nearly four decades in the Indian Navy.
Distinguished Naval Career
Commissioned into the Indian Navy on 1 July 1989, Vice Admiral Saxena is an alumnus of the National Defence Academy (Khadakwasla), Defence Services Staff College (Wellington), and the Naval War College, USA. Over the years, he has held numerous key operational, staff, and training appointments, contributing significantly to India’s maritime security and naval strategy.
Command Tenures and Key Appointments
The Vice Admiral has commanded several prominent vessels, including the Mauritian Coast Guard ship Guardian, INS Kulish, and INS Mysore. He also served as Fleet Operations Officer of the Western Fleet.
On shore, his notable assignments include Joint Director of Personnel and Principal Director of Foreign Cooperation at Naval Headquarters, Naval Adviser at the High Commission of India in London, and Naval Assistant to the Chief of the Naval Staff.
After his promotion to Rear Admiral in February 2020, he served as Assistant Chief of Naval Staff (Policy & Plans) and later commanded the Western Fleet as Flag Officer Commanding Western Fleet (FOCWF). In November 2022, he assumed charge as Flag Officer Commanding Gujarat, Daman and Diu Naval Area. On promotion to Vice Admiral, he became Chief of Staff at HQ Eastern Naval Command.
Awards and Commendations
Vice Admiral Saxena’s distinguished service has been recognized with several honors. He was awarded the Nau Sena Medal (NM) in 2017 and the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM) in 2023. He has also been commended by the Chief of the Naval Staff and the Commissioner of Police of Mauritius for acts of gallantry at sea.
Personal Life and Community Engagement
Vice Admiral Saxena is married to Mrs. Laboni Saxena, who has been actively involved in the Navy Wives Welfare Association (NWWA), supporting initiatives for the welfare of naval families.
