NEW DELHI / RankWire.AI / – Defence Minister Rajnath Singh stated that India has enhanced its position as a primary responder and security collaborator in the Indian Ocean Region. These remarks 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 prowess and increasing operational scope.
According to Singh, the growing congestion at sea, deception tactics, and gray-zone activities have complicated operational conditions. He urged for improved monitoring, surveillance, and analytical tools across India’s maritime domain. The defence minister also connected naval readiness with safeguarding trade routes, energy resources, and national security interests. He highlighted the Indian Navy’s role in 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. The operation has supported 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, making secure sea lanes crucial for the country’s energy security, economy, and defense preparedness.
Domestic shipbuilding advances support Navy modernization efforts
Singh emphasized that the Navy’s modernization efforts increasingly depend on India’s homegrown defence manufacturing and shipbuilding industries. He stated that over 75% of the components in recently commissioned warships are indigenous. Furthermore, he announced plans to induct or commission 18 warships in 2026, marking the most significant single-year increase in the service’s history, and called for ongoing capability enhancement and domestic production growth.
The conference also covered topics such as personnel policies, technological advancements, logistics, training, and operational readiness. Discussions during the three-day meeting included artificial intelligence, big data analysis, autonomous systems, and cyber operations. The Indian Navy has expanded the deployment of women officers on frontline warships and aircraft, with Singh citing these assignments and women’s participation in naval sailing expeditions as part of the “All Ranks, All Roles” strategy.
India enhances international maritime cooperation
Singh highlighted India’s leadership of Combined Task Force 154 under the Combined Maritime Forces, which India assumed command of in February 2026. During this period, Kochi hosted Operation Southern Readiness, involving 276 personnel from 27 nations, along with 76 facilitators and subject specialists, supported by four international organizations. Singh described this command as a demonstration of India’s contribution to collaborative maritime security efforts.
He also pointed to INS Sudarshini’s Lokayan 26 voyage, which has traversed the Atlantic and entered the Mediterranean. The deployment included port visits aimed at naval diplomacy, training, and engaging with Indian communities abroad. The Commanders’ Conference, running through October 1, gathers senior naval leaders, operational commanders, and government officials to discuss combat readiness, maritime security, force development, technological innovation, and inter-service coordination in India’s armed forces.