(1) The Deputy chief of the Naval Staff shall be a Flag Officer appointed as such by the Government
(2) The Deputy Chief of the Naval Staff shall also be the Chief of Staff to the Chief of the Naval Staff.
(3) In the absence of the Chief of the Naval Staff from the Headquarters, the Deputy Chief of the Naval Staff may exercise such of the former’s functions as may be authorized by him, save such powers as may, under law, be exercised only by the Chief of the Naval Staff.
(4) Death or serious illness of the Chief of the Naval Staff. – If the Chief of the Naval Staff should die, or if the state of his health should make it absolutely necessary for him to quit his command without waiting for the appointment of his successor, the Deputy Chief of the Naval Staff shall forthwith assume command of the Service until such time as the directions of the Government are received.