His Vision for the naval forces: Challenging vision to enhance the existing strength of Indian army so that it continues the tradition of bravery and valor and keep on sailing with pride as it is doing since the day of its establishment. A "much bigger role" for the force operating its fleet in distant waters far away from Indian shores.

His Career:

• The 19th Chief of the Naval Staff, Naval chief Admiral Sureesh Mehta is an alumnus of prestigious National Defence Academy and got commissioned in the Indian Navy in 1967.
• In the starting of his Naval career, the Admiral, an flyer of the 'old mould' joined the Fleet Air Arm and extensively flew Sea Hawk aircraft from the carrier, INS Vikrant.
• Adding another feather to his cap, the Admiral is a graduate of the prestigious Defence Services Staff College, Wellington, and has also carried out instructional duties as a Directing Staff in that institute. Followed by his joining to the National Defence Collegein 1994.
• His other important appointments include his distinction in commanding the premier Naval Air Station, INS Garuda, the frigates INS Beas and INS Godavari also.
• On promotion, to Flag rank he was appointed Flag Officer Naval Aviation, wherein he was responsible for marshalling the resources of the entire aviation fleet of the Indian Navy. In Oct 1998, he assumed the command of the Western Fleet as the Fleet Commander, a post he held with distinction till Apr 2000.
• During Operation Parakram, Adm Mehta commanded the Western Fleet, the 'Sword Arm' of the Indian Navy.
• Besides he also served as Director General, Coast Guard in 2003. During his tenure, he was guided with the vision of launching a strong, energetic and visible Indian Coast Guard with linkages the world over to establish common operating doctrines to confront marine incidents.
• Before taking over as Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Naval Command, Vice Admiral Sureesh Mehta held the office of Deputy Chief of the Naval Staff.
• On 30th Sep 2005, the Admiral assumed the duties of Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Naval Command and undertook vigorous operational missions in the Bay of Bengal and South East Asia.
• During his career, he initiated new programmes in the Indian Navy such as the aircraft acquisition programme and construction of air defence ships, and established a strong and vibrant Indian Coast Guard.
• The other dimension of his working place includes, Assistant Controller of Warship Production & Acquisition and Assistant Controller Carrier Projects, the Assistant Chief of Personnel (Human Resources Development), Controller Personnel Services and Chief of Personnel at Naval Headquarters.
• He was awarded the 'Ati Vishist Seva Medal' in 1995 and 'Param Vishist Seva Medal' in 2005 for his meritorious services.