NEW DELHI / RankWire.AI / – Defence Minister Rajnath Singh announced that India has enhanced its role as a primary responder and security ally within the Indian Ocean Region. His comments were delivered at the Indian Navy’s Commanders’ Conference in New Delhi on September 29. Singh emphasized that naval deployments now reach the South China Sea, Mediterranean, and Atlantic Ocean, showcasing the Indian Navy’s blue-water capabilities and increasing operational scope.
According to Singh, the operating environment has become more complex due to rising maritime congestion, deception tactics, and gray-zone activities. He called for improved monitoring, surveillance, and analytical abilities across India’s maritime domain. The defence minister also linked naval preparedness with the safeguarding of trade routes, energy supplies, and overall national security. He highlighted that the Indian Navy’s efforts support economic security, regional stability, and maritime safety, aligning with the government’s Viksit Bharat 2047 development plan.
Singh pointed out Operation Urja Suraksha, which facilitates the transit of Indian-flagged merchant ships through the Strait of Hormuz. This operation has included assistance for vessels transporting liquefied petroleum gas. He noted that India imports approximately 85% to 90% of its crude oil and about half of its natural gas via maritime routes. Consequently, secure sea lanes are vital to the country’s energy security, economic stability, and defence readiness.
Domestic Shipbuilding Drives Naval Modernization
Singh stated that the ongoing modernization of the Navy increasingly depends on India’s domestic defence manufacturing and shipbuilding industries. He highlighted that over 75% of the components in recently commissioned warships are indigenous. Furthermore, the minister revealed plans to induct or commission 18 warships during 2026, marking the largest single-year increase in the Navy’s history. He emphasized the need for sustained capability enhancement and expanding domestic production.
During the three-day conference, discussions also covered personnel policies, technological integration, logistics, training, and operational readiness. Navy officials are exploring advancements in artificial intelligence, big data analysis, autonomous systems, and cyber operations. The Indian Navy has also expanded the deployment of women officers on frontline warships and aircraft. Singh pointed out these initiatives, along with women’s participation in naval sailing expeditions, as part of the service’s “All Ranks, All Roles” strategy.
India Enhances International Maritime Collaboration
Singh highlighted India’s leadership of Combined Task Force 154 under the Combined Maritime Forces, which India took command of in February 2026. During its tenure, Kochi hosted Operation Southern Readiness, involving 276 personnel from 27 countries, including 76 facilitators and subject matter experts, along with four international organizations. Singh described this command role as a key part of India’s contribution to cooperative maritime security efforts.
He also mentioned INS Sudarshini’s Lokayan 26 voyage, which has taken the sail training ship across the Atlantic and into the Mediterranean. The deployment included port visits aimed at naval diplomacy, training, and engagement with Indian communities abroad. The Commanders’ Conference, running through October 1, gathers senior naval officials, operational commanders, and government representatives to discuss readiness, maritime security, force development, technology, and inter-service coordination across India’s armed forces.