The Andaman and Nicobar Command (ANC) is the first integrated theatre command in India with its headquarters at Port Blair. It operates directly under the Chiefs of Staff Committee (COSC). Itwas created in 2001 to safeguard India's strategic interest in Southeast Asia and the Strait of Malacca by increasing rapid deployment of military assets in the region.It provides logistical and administrative support to the naval ships which are sent on deployment to East Asia and the Pacific Ocean.