Vice Admiral Vineet McCarty to Lead Andaman and Nicobar Command as New Commander-in-Chief
Vice Admiral Vineet McCarty, AVSM, is set to take over as the Commander-in-Chief of the Andaman and Nicobar Command (ANC) beginning June 1, 2026.
In his new role, Vice Adm McCarty will oversee the comprehensive development and operational oversight of key military assets throughout the Andaman and Nicobar archipelago, with a significant focus on the strategically vital Great Nicobar Island (GNI), as part of India's sole integrated tri-services command.
A seasoned expert in Gunnery and Missiles, Vice Adm McCarty has served the Indian Navy with distinction since his commission in 1989. His career includes command of major frontline vessels such as INS Shivalik, INS Khanjar, and INS Ajay.
He has also held significant staff and leadership roles, including positions as Assistant Chief of the Naval Staff (Staff Requirements), Flag Officer Commanding Western Fleet, Commandant of the Indian Naval Academy, and most recently, Controller Personnel Services.
This appointment comes as the Andaman and Nicobar Command assumes greater strategic importance due to changing maritime security dynamics in the Indo-Pacific region. The command is central to enhancing India's operational reach, surveillance capabilities, and joint force integration within the Indian Ocean Region.
The transition in leadership is anticipated to bolster India's maritime stance and drive forward the development of strategic infrastructure across the island territories.
