Faculty Field Trip at INS HANSA, Dabolim Goa

The Department of Computer Engineering of our college (DBCE) organized a field visit on May 17^th, 2024 to INS Hansa, Dabolim – Goa, as a part of faculty development programme aiming to gain a comprehensive understanding of naval aviation operations and explore potential AI and ML projects for students..

INS Hansa, established in 1961, is one of the Indian Navy’s foremost naval air stations, playing a pivotal role in maintaining operational readiness. The station houses various naval air squadrons and is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities for aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul. During our visit, we had the opportunity to delve into the intricacies of aircraft maintenance, particularly focusing on the MiG aircraft. The engineers at the facility demonstrated the meticulous processes involved in maintaining these aircraft, from routine checks to complex repairs. This exposure was invaluable in understanding the practical application of aeronautical engineering principles. Additionally, we witnessed an emergency landing, which provided real-time insights into the high level of skill and coordination required by pilots and ground control teams to manage such situations safely. This experience underscored the importance of crisis management and operational safety in aviation, offering a vivid demonstration of the challenges and responsibilities inherent in naval aviation operations.

The interaction with the Lt Commanders at INS Hansa was the highlight of the visit. These seasoned officers shared their extensive knowledge and experience, offering a deep dive into the operational challenges, technological advancements, and strategic significance of naval aviation. The discussion sessions were particularly enlightening, covering a broad spectrum of topics that included the integration of advanced engineering principles in naval operations and the potential for incorporating AI and ML to enhance efficiency and safety. During the Q&A session, the faculty posed various questions about the real-world applications of AI and ML in naval aviation. This interaction led to the identification of several potential AI and ML project ideas for our engineering students. The officers suggested projects that could significantly contribute to the field, such as predictive maintenance models, flight data analysis tools, emergency scenario simulators, autonomous inspection drones, and optimized communication systems. These ideas were not only innovative but also practical, offering exciting opportunities for students to engage in cutting-edge research and development.

The visit to INS Hansa was an enriching experience that provided valuable insights into the world of naval aviation. It highlighted the crucial role of engineering in defense application and presented exciting possibilities for our students to contribute to this field through innovative AI and ML projects. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Mr. Mukesh Joshi, other officers and staff of INS Hansa for their hospitality and for sharing their invaluable knowledge and experience, making this visit a memorable and educational experience. A total of 11 faculty attended the field trip and it was coordinated by Prof. Manisha Fal Dessai.