Navy Day 2024 Special: Here’s How The Indian Navy Is Rising As A Global Maritime Power

As India commemorates Navy Day 2024, the Indian Navy continues solidifying its position at the forefront of the nation's maritime ambitions. With a legacy steeped in operational excellence and strategic foresight, the Navy has transformed into a formidable force capable of safeguarding India's interests in an increasingly contested Indo-Pacific. The Navy embodies India's ascent as a maritime power, from modernising its fleet to integrating advanced technology and fostering global partnerships.

A Force in Transition: From Vision to Execution

With around 150 ships and submarines currently in service, the Indian Navy has charted an ambitious roadmap to become a 175-ship force by 2035. An indigenous shipbuilding programme is at the core of this ambition, reflecting India's commitment to self-reliance in defence manufacturing.

As confirmed by the Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral Dinesh Tripathi, at the recent press conference ahead of Navy Day, 62 ships and one submarine are under construction in Indian shipyards. At the same time, 31 additional platforms have received initial approvals under the Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) framework.

The recently unveiled Indian Navy Vision 2047 aims to establish a future-ready force by India's centenary of independence. This comprehensive blueprint consolidates India's maritime resurgence, focusing on credible deterrence, operational readiness, and technological integration to counter emerging threats.

One of the most significant developments is the Cabinet Committee on Security's (CCS) approval to construct two nuclear attack submarines (SSNs). The first SSN is expected to be commissioned by 2036-37, followed by the second in 2038. These submarines will enhance the Navy's strategic capabilities, particularly in contested waters.

Expanding the Undersea Arsenal

Submarines remain a crucial component of India's naval power. The commissioning of INS Arighat in August 2024 marked another milestone in strengthening India's nuclear deterrence capabilities. The Navy also successfully tested the K-4 nuclear-capable ballistic missile from INS Arighat, a critical step in showcasing India's readiness in the underwater domain.

In addition to its nuclear submarine fleet, the Navy is advancing its conventional capabilities. Five Kalvari-class diesel-electric submarines, developed under Project 75, are already operational. Negotiations for three more Scorpene-class submarines with Air-Independent Propulsion (AIP) systems are progressing, aiming to bolster endurance and stealth. The much-anticipated Project 75I, envisioned to deliver six next-generation AIP-equipped submarines, remains a significant component of India's future maritime strategy.

Surface Fleet Modernisation: Power and Projection

India's surface fleet is evolving in line with its blue-water aspirations. The commissioning of INS Vikrant in 2022, India's first indigenously built aircraft carrier, highlights this transformation. Alongside INS Vikramaditya, these carriers anchor India's power projection capabilities. While discussions about a third aircraft carrier, potentially named INS Vishal, have been ongoing, formal announcements or timelines have yet to be established.
The Navy's surface fleet also boasts modern destroyers like the Visakhapatnam-class and stealthy frigates like the Nilgiri-class, both equipped with state-of-the-art weaponry and defensive systems. At least one new vessel is likely to join the fleet soon, further enhancing India's maritime strength.

Naval Aviation: Expanding Wings of Power

The Indian Navy is on the cusp of significant advancements in its aviation capabilities. The anticipated procurement of 26 Rafale-Marine jets from France is expected to significantly enhance carrier-based air power, complementing India's fleet of MiG-29Ks.

Additionally, the Navy bolsters its surveillance and anti-submarine warfare (ASW) capabilities with platforms like the Boeing P-8I Poseidon and Sikorsky MH-60R helicopters. The proposed induction of 31 MQ-9B drones will further expand the Navy's ability to monitor the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

Strategic Infrastructure and Technological Innovations

Developing strategic naval infrastructure is key to the Navy's modernisation efforts. The construction of INS Varsha, a dedicated base for nuclear submarines near Visakhapatnam, and ongoing upgrades to facilities in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are expected to enhance India's ability to monitor critical sea lanes and respond swiftly to regional challenges.

The Navy has also embraced advanced technology, with over 30 artificial intelligence (AI) projects underway to improve decision-making and operational efficiency. Innovations like the Neerakshi underwater drone exemplify the Navy's commitment to adopting cutting-edge technologies.

Geopolitical Challenges and Strategic Readiness

The Indian Navy remains vigilant amid increasing regional competition. Admiral Tripathi highlighted the surprising growth of the Pakistan Navy, which aims to become a 50-ship force by the next decade. Supported heavily by China, Pakistan is acquiring new submarines and warships that could alter the regional balance of power.

Meanwhile, China's naval activities in the IOR, including its warships and research vessels, are constantly monitored. India's proactive monitoring and strategic recalibration emphasise its readiness to safeguard its maritime interests.

Partnerships and Global Engagement

India's active participation in global maritime frameworks demonstrates its commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific. Collaborations with partners like France, the United States, and Japan and exercises such as Malabar reflect India's role as a net security provider.

The Navy's humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) operations further cement its reputation as a "first responder" in the region. From evacuations during crises to post-disaster aid delivery, the Navy continues to exemplify operational versatility and soft power.

Looking Ahead: A Maritime Powerhouse in the Making

The Indian Navy is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping India's strategic trajectory. By focusing on indigenous innovation, technological integration, and global partnerships, the Navy continues to reflect the nation's maritime aspirations.

This Navy Day, countrymen salute the unwavering dedication of the men and women of the Indian Navy, who defend its maritime frontiers and pave the way for its future as a global maritime power.

Aritra Banerjee is a Defence, Foreign Affairs & Aerospace Journalist, Co-Author of the book 'The Indian Navy @75: Reminiscing the Voyage' and was the Co-Founder of Mission Victory India (MVI), a new-age military reforms think-tank. He has worked in TV, Print and Digital media, and has been a columnist writing on strategic affairs for national and international publications. His reporting career has seen him covering major Security and Aviation events in Europe and travelling across Kashmir conflict zones. Twitter: @Aritrabanned