How the Indian Navy is Redefining Maritime Security in the Indo-Pacific

As Navy Day 2024 unfolds, the Indian Navy stands at the forefront of India’s strategic ambitions in the Indo-Pacific. This celebration of maritime strength is a poignant reminder of the Navy’s evolution into a force that secures India’s maritime interests and contributes to regional stability and global security. Facing an increasingly complex geopolitical environment, the Navy is shaping itself into a modern, agile, and technologically advanced force that highlights India’s commitment to a free and open maritime domain.

At the heart of this transformation is Vision 2047, a strategic roadmap that seeks to establish a self-reliant, technologically advanced Navy by the centenary of India’s independence. With an aim to exceed 175 ships and submarines by 2035, the Indian Navy has undertaken an ambitious fleet expansion programme. This shift is supported by the government’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat (Make-in-India) initiative, which prioritises indigenisation and innovation. Over 60 ships and submarines are under construction in Indian shipyards, including advanced platforms like the Next-Generation Missile Vessels and the Project 18-class destroyers.

One of the key challenges the Navy faces is maintaining its qualitative edge amidst a rapidly changing maritime environment. Developing robust undersea warfare capabilities is a crucial aspect of this effort. The commissioning of INS Arighat earlier this year marked a significant step forward in India’s nuclear deterrence capabilities. This second Arihant-class nuclear submarine is equipped with the K-4 intermediate-range submarine-launched ballistic missile, providing a powerful second-strike capability. Additionally, the government’s approval for constructing two nuclear-powered attack submarines (SSNs) by 2036 underlines a commitment to addressing gaps in undersea combat capabilities.

Conventional submarine operations are also a priority. The Navy’s operational fleet of Kalvari-class submarines, developed under Project 75, continues to strengthen its underwater capabilities. Negotiations for additional Scorpene-class submarines equipped with Air-Independent Propulsion (AIP) systems and the anticipated Project 75I programme for six next-generation AIP-equipped submarines reflect a long-term commitment to enhancing stealth and endurance.

The surface fleet has seen equally transformative developments. The commissioning of INS Vikrant, India’s first indigenously built aircraft carrier, alongside INS Vikramaditya, has cemented the Navy’s power projection capabilities in the Indo-Pacific. Recent dual-carrier operations highlight the Navy’s operational readiness and its ability to dominate key maritime regions. The fleet’s strength is further augmented by platforms like the Visakhapatnam-class destroyers and Nilgiri-class frigates, which are equipped with state-of-the-art weaponry and defensive systems. Plans for the advanced Project 18-class destroyers indicate that the Navy is preparing to meet the demands of future maritime warfare.

Technological integration is central to the Navy’s modernisation strategy. Over 30 artificial intelligence (AI) projects are reported to be underway to enhance decision-making and operational efficiency, while innovations like the Neerakshi underwater drone exemplify how the Navy is leveraging emerging technologies to maintain a strategic advantage. Infrastructure developments, such as the construction of INS Varsha, a dedicated nuclear submarine base near Visakhapatnam, and upgrades in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, further strengthen India’s ability to secure critical sea lanes and chokepoints.

The Navy’s role as a net security provider in the Indo-Pacific has been bolstered by its active participation in multinational frameworks and exercises. Collaborations with partners like the United States, Japan, and Australia through the Quad and exercises such as Malabar demonstrate India’s commitment to fostering a rules-based maritime order. At the same time, the Navy’s reputation for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) operations highlights its capacity for soft power and its ability to respond swiftly to regional crises.

Geopolitical challenges remain a key factor shaping the Navy’s priorities. Increased activity by external actors in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) demands a proactive and vigilant approach. While India continues to advocate for open and inclusive maritime spaces, it remains firm in safeguarding its sovereignty and ensuring the security of its extensive coastline and exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

As India celebrates Navy Day 2024, the Navy’s journey is not just about building platforms but about fostering resilience, innovation, and collaboration. By focusing on indigenisation, technological advancement, and regional partnerships, the Indian Navy is navigating a path toward ensuring peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific. In an era of contested waters and shifting power dynamics, the Navy is a testament to India’s unwavering commitment to securing its maritime future, amidst Chinese hegemony.

Featured Image: Indian Navy