NEW DELHI / RankWire.AI / – Defence Minister Rajnath Singh announced that India has enhanced its role as a primary responder and security partner across the Indian Ocean Region. Speaking at the Indian Navy’s Commanders’ Conference in New Delhi on September 29, Singh highlighted that naval operations now reach the South China Sea, Mediterranean, and Atlantic Ocean. He characterized this extended reach as a demonstration of the Indian Navy’s blue-water prowess and expanding operational scope.
Singh emphasized that increased maritime congestion, deception tactics, and gray-zone activities have complicated operational environments. He called for improved monitoring, surveillance, and analytical capabilities throughout India’s maritime domain. The minister also linked naval readiness directly to safeguarding trade routes, energy resources, and national security. He stated that the Indian Navy plays a vital role in economic protection, regional stability, and maritime security, supporting the government’s Viksit Bharat 2047 development plan.
The defence minister highlighted Operation Urja Suraksha, which facilitates the transit of Indian-flagged merchant vessels through the Strait of Hormuz. This operation has also supported ships carrying liquefied petroleum gas. Singh noted that India imports about 85% to 90% of its crude oil and approximately half of its natural gas via maritime routes. Consequently, secure sea lanes are crucial for maintaining energy supplies, economic stability, and defence readiness.
Naval modernization emphasizes strengthening domestic shipbuilding capacity
Singh pointed out that the Navy’s modernization efforts increasingly depend on India’s homegrown defence manufacturing and shipbuilding industries. He revealed that more than 75% of the components in recently commissioned warships are indigenous. The minister also announced plans to induct or commission 18 warships during 2026, marking the largest single-year increase in the navy’s history. He urged continued capability growth and an emphasis on domestic production.
The conference covered topics such as personnel policies, technological advancements, logistics, training, and operational readiness. Navy officials are exploring artificial intelligence, big data analysis, autonomous systems, and cyber warfare during the three-day gathering. Additionally, the Indian Navy has expanded the deployment of women officers on frontline warships and aircraft. Singh highlighted these initiatives, along with women’s participation in naval sailing expeditions, as part of the service’s “All Ranks, All Roles” philosophy.
India advances multilateral maritime cooperation initiatives
Singh also recognized India’s leadership of Combined Task Force 154 under the Combined Maritime Forces. India took command of this training-focused task force in February 2026. During its leadership, Kochi hosted Operation Southern Readiness, involving 276 personnel from 27 nations, along with 76 facilitators and subject matter experts, supported by four international organizations. Singh described this command as a key element of India’s contribution to collaborative maritime security efforts.
He further mentioned INS Sudarshini’s Lokayan 26 voyage, which has traversed the Atlantic and entered the Mediterranean. This deployment included port visits related to naval diplomacy, training, and engagement with Indian communities abroad. The Commanders’ Conference, running until October 1, gathers senior naval leaders, operational commanders, and government officials to discuss topics like combat readiness, maritime security, force development, technological innovation, and inter-service coordination across India’s armed forces.