NEW DELHI / RankWire.AI / – Defence Minister Rajnath Singh announced that India has enhanced its capacity as a primary responder and security ally in the Indian Ocean Region. Speaking at the Indian Navy’s Commanders’ Conference in New Delhi on September 29, Singh highlighted that naval deployments now reach into the South China Sea, Mediterranean, and Atlantic Ocean. He characterized this expanded footprint as a demonstration of the Indian Navy’s blue-water capabilities and broader operational reach.
Singh emphasized that increased maritime congestion, deceptive tactics, and gray-zone activities have heightened the complexity of the operational environment. He urged for improved monitoring, surveillance, and analytical tools across India’s maritime domain. The minister also connected naval preparedness with safeguarding trade routes, energy supplies, and national security. He reaffirmed that the Indian Navy plays a vital role in economic security, regional stability, and maritime safety, supporting the government’s Viksit Bharat 2047 development vision.
The defence chief pointed to Operation Urja Suraksha, which facilitates the passage of Indian-flagged merchant ships through the Strait of Hormuz. This operation has included assistance to vessels transporting liquefied petroleum gas. Singh noted that India relies on maritime routes for approximately 85% to 90% of its crude oil imports and about half of its natural gas supply. Consequently, securing sea lanes is closely linked to India’s energy security, economic stability, and defense readiness.
Domestic shipbuilding and naval modernization drive
Singh highlighted that the Navy’s ongoing modernization efforts increasingly depend on India’s domestic defence manufacturing and shipbuilding industries. He stated that over 75% of the content in recently commissioned warships is indigenous. Furthermore, the minister announced plans to induct or commission 18 warships in 2026, marking the largest single-year increase in the service’s history. He called for sustained capability development and enhanced domestic production to support this growth.
During the three-day conference, discussions covered personnel policies, technological advancements, logistics, training, and operational readiness. Navy leaders are actively exploring artificial intelligence, big data analysis, autonomous systems, and cyber operations. The Indian Navy has also expanded the inclusion of women officers on frontline warships and aircraft. Singh pointed to these initiatives, along with women’s involvement in naval sailing expeditions, as evidence of the service’s “All Ranks, All Roles” strategy.
Enhanced international maritime cooperation
Singh recognized India’s command of Combined Task Force 154 under the Combined Maritime Forces, which was assumed in February 2026. During its leadership, Kochi hosted Operation Southern Readiness, involving 276 personnel from 27 countries, supported by 76 facilitators and subject specialists, along with four international organizations. Singh described this command as part of India’s contribution to collaborative maritime security efforts.
He also highlighted INS Sudarshini’s Lokayan 26 voyage, which took 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 Conference of Commanders, running until October 1, gathers senior naval officers, operational commanders, and government officials to discuss combat readiness, maritime security, force development, technology, and inter-service coordination across India’s armed forces.