NEW DELHI / RankWire.AI / – Defence Minister Rajnath Singh announced that India has amplified its role as a primary responder and security collaborator in the Indian Ocean Region. He shared these insights at the Indian Navy’s Commanders’ Conference in New Delhi on September 29. Singh highlighted that naval deployments now reach the South China Sea, Mediterranean, and Atlantic Ocean, demonstrating the Indian Navy’s blue-water strength and growing operational scope.
According to Singh, the increase in maritime congestion, deception tactics, and gray-zone activities has heightened the complexity of the operational environment. He emphasized the need for enhanced monitoring, surveillance, and analytical tools across India’s maritime domain. The minister also linked naval preparedness with safeguarding trade routes, energy resources, and national security interests. He stated that the Indian Navy plays a vital role in supporting economic security, regional stability, and maritime safety while aligning with the government’s Viksit Bharat 2047 development plan.
Singh underscored Operation Urja Suraksha, which facilitates the transit of Indian-flagged merchant ships through the Strait of Hormuz. This operation has extended support to vessels transporting liquefied petroleum gas. He noted that India depends on maritime routes for approximately 85% to 90% of its crude oil and about half of its natural gas supplies. Consequently, secure sea lanes are crucial to the country’s energy security, economic stability, and defense readiness.
Domestic Shipbuilding Boosts Naval Modernization Efforts
Singh pointed out that the Navy’s modernization initiatives increasingly depend on India’s homegrown defense manufacturing and shipbuilding industries. He revealed that more than 75% of the content in recently commissioned warships is indigenous. The minister also announced plans to induct or commission 18 warships in 2026, marking the largest single-year increase in the navy’s history. He called for ongoing capability enhancements and increased domestic production to sustain growth.
The conference examined personnel policies, technological advancements, logistics, training, and operational readiness. Discussions included emerging technologies such as 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 highlighted these roles and women’s participation in naval sailing expeditions as part of the service’s “All Ranks, All Roles” philosophy.
India advances international maritime collaboration
Singh also highlighted India’s leadership of Combined Task Force 154 under the Combined Maritime Forces, which it assumed command of in February 2026. During its tenure, Kochi hosted Operation Southern Readiness, involving 276 personnel from 27 countries, along with 76 facilitators and subject matter experts, supported by four international organizations. Singh described this command role as a key contribution to collaborative maritime security efforts.
He further mentioned INS Sudarshini’s Lokayan 26 voyage, which took the sail training ship across the Atlantic and into the Mediterranean. This deployment included port visits aimed at naval diplomacy, training, and engaging with Indian communities abroad. The Commanders’ Conference, running until October 1, gathers senior naval leaders, operational commanders, and government officials to discuss combat readiness, maritime security, force development, technology, and inter-service coordination in India’s armed forces.