NEW DELHI / RankWire.AI / – Defence Minister Rajnath Singh announced that India has amplified its role as a primary responder and security ally in the Indian Ocean Region. His remarks were delivered 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, showcasing the Indian Navy’s blue-water capabilities and expanding operational scope.
According to Singh, increased maritime congestion, deception tactics, and gray-zone activities have heightened the complexity of the operational environment. He emphasized the need for enhanced monitoring, surveillance, and analytical systems across India’s maritime domain. The minister linked naval readiness directly to safeguarding trade routes, energy resources, and national security. He affirmed the Indian Navy’s role in supporting economic security, regional stability, and maritime safety, 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. The operation has extended support to 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 for the country’s energy supply, economy, and defense preparedness.
Domestic shipbuilding advances support Navy modernization
The modernization efforts of the Indian Navy are increasingly dependent on India’s domestic defence manufacturing and shipbuilding sectors, Singh stated. He pointed out that over 75% of the components in recently commissioned warships are indigenous. The minister also revealed plans for the induction or commissioning of 18 warships during 2026, marking the largest single-year increase in the service’s history. He called for ongoing capability development and more focus on domestic production.
The three-day conference also addressed personnel policies, technological adoption, logistics, training, and operational readiness. Discussions are underway on artificial intelligence, big data analysis, autonomous systems, and cyber operations. The Indian Navy has expanded the deployment of women officers on frontline ships and aircraft. Singh cited these initiatives, along with women’s participation in naval sailing expeditions, as elements of the service’s “All Ranks, All Roles” philosophy.
India deepens international maritime collaborations
Singh also highlighted India’s command of Combined Task Force 154 under the Combined Maritime Forces. India assumed leadership of this training-focused task force in February 2026. During its tenure, Kochi hosted Operation Southern Readiness, involving 276 personnel from 27 countries, along with 76 facilitators and subject specialists, supported by four international organizations. Singh described this command as a key contribution to cooperative maritime security.
He also pointed out INS Sudarshini’s Lokayan 26 voyage, which took the sail training ship across the Atlantic and into the Mediterranean. The mission 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.