NEW DELHI: In a first, the Indian Navy has deployed a P-8I maritime reconnaissance aircraft to Seychelles for surveillance in the Exclusive Economic Zone of the Indian Ocean island country. 

The Indian Navy has, in the past, undertaken surveillance missions in Seychelles' EEZ twice a year, by deploying naval ships. 

The last such deployment was undertaken by ships of the 1st Training Squadron of the Indian Navy in October last year. 

This is the first time that the P8I aircraft has been deployed to Seychelles. 

The aircraft will remain deployed till March 23. During this period, the aircraft will undertake surveillance of the EEZ. 

Besides, the deployment will facilitate professional interaction between the aircrew and the Seychelles Peoples Defence Force (SPDF). 

Deployment of Indian Navy's latest and technologically most advanced maritime reconnaissance aircraft is an indicator of India's commitment towards ensuring the security of Seychellois EEZ, the Navy said in a statement. 

This deployment would assist in curbing illegal activities and piracy as well as contribute towards security and stability in the Indian Ocean Region, it said.

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