Chola Navy - Organization and Administration

Organization and Administration

The Ancient Chola navy was based on trade vessel designs with little more than boarding implements, though this changed throughout the history. The later day navy was a specialized force with specially built ships for each type of combat.

The Imperial Navy of the Medieval Cholas was composed of a multitude of forces in its command. In addition to the regular navy (Kappal-Padai), there were many auxiliary forces that could be used in naval combat. The Chola Navy was an autonomous service unlike many of its contemporaries. The Army depended on the Naval-fleets for transportation and logistics. The navy also had a core of marines. Even saboteurs, who were trained pearl-fishermen were used, to dive and disable enemy vessels by destroying or damaging the rudder.

The Chola Navy could undertake any of the following combat and non-combat missions,

• Peacetime patrol and interdiction of piracy.
• Escort trade conveys.
• Escort friendly vessels.
• Naval battle close to home ports and at high-seas.
• Establish a beachhead and or reinforce the army in times of need.
• Denial of passage for allies of the state's enemies.
• Sabotage of enemy vessels

This multi-dimensional force enabled the Cholas to achieve the Military, Political and cultural hegemony over their vast dominion.