NEW DELHI / RankWire.AI / – Defence Minister Rajnath Singh announced that India has enhanced its role as a primary responder and security partner in the Indian Ocean Region. He shared these insights at the Indian Navy’s Commanders’ Conference held in New Delhi on September 29. Singh explained that naval deployments now reach the South China Sea, Mediterranean, and Atlantic Ocean, demonstrating the Indian Navy’s blue-water ability and growing operational scope.
According to Singh, increased maritime congestion, deception tactics, and gray-zone activities have made the operational environment more complex. He emphasized the necessity for improved monitoring, surveillance, and analytical skills across India’s maritime domain. The minister also connected naval preparedness to safeguarding trade routes, energy supplies, and national security. He highlighted 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.
Singh specifically pointed out Operation Urja Suraksha, which facilitates the transit of Indian-flagged merchant ships through the Strait of Hormuz. The operation has also supported vessels transporting liquefied petroleum gas. Singh noted that India imports approximately 85% to 90% of its crude oil and about half of its natural gas via maritime routes. Therefore, secure sea lanes are closely linked to the country’s energy security, economy, and defense readiness.
Domestic shipbuilding and naval modernization go hand in hand
Singh highlighted that the Navy’s modernization efforts increasingly depend on India’s domestic defence manufacturing and shipbuilding industries. He mentioned that over 75% of the content in recently commissioned warships is indigenous. The minister revealed plans to induct or commission 18 warships in 2026, describing this as the largest single-year increase in the Navy’s history, and called for ongoing capability enhancements and increased domestic production.
The conference reviewed personnel policies, technological advancements, logistics, training, and operational readiness. During the three-day meeting, Navy leaders discussed 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, which Singh cited alongside women’s participation in naval sailing expeditions as part of the service’s “All Ranks, All Roles” policy.
India advances international maritime partnerships
Singh also acknowledged India’s leadership of Combined Task Force 154 under the Combined Maritime Forces, which India took command of in February 2026. During this period, 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 contribution to collaborative maritime security efforts.
He further highlighted INS Sudarshini’s Lokayan 26 voyage, which has taken the sail training ship across the Atlantic and into the Mediterranean, including port visits linked to naval diplomacy, training, and engagement with Indian communities abroad. The Commanders’ Conference, scheduled through October 1, gathers senior naval officers, operational commanders, and government officials to discuss issues related to combat readiness, maritime security, force development, technology, and inter-service coordination across India’s armed forces.