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 deployments now reach into the South China Sea, Mediterranean, and Atlantic Ocean. He characterized this expanded presence as proof of the Indian Navy’s blue-water capabilities and its growing operational scope.
According to Singh, increased maritime congestion, deceptive tactics, and gray-zone activities have made the operational environment more complex. He emphasized the need for improved monitoring, surveillance, and analytical tools across India’s maritime domain. The minister also linked naval readiness to the safeguarding of trade routes, energy supplies, and national security. He reiterated 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 highlighted Operation Urja Suraksha, which facilitates the transit of Indian-flagged merchant ships through the Strait of Hormuz. This operation has supported vessels transporting liquefied petroleum gas. He noted that India secures approximately 85% to 90% of its crude oil and around half of its natural gas through maritime routes. Consequently, ensuring the safety of sea lanes is closely tied to the country’s energy security, economic stability, and defense preparedness.
Domestic Shipbuilding Boosts Navy Modernization
Singh stated that the Navy’s modernization efforts increasingly depend on India’s domestic defence manufacturing and shipbuilding industries. He mentioned that more than 75% of the recently commissioned warships contain indigenous components. The minister also revealed plans to induct or commission 18 warships during 2026, describing this as the largest single-year increase in the Navy’s history. He called for ongoing capability enhancements and increased domestic production.
The conference sessions covered personnel policies, technological advancements, logistics, training, and operational readiness. Navy officials are exploring artificial intelligence, big data analytics, autonomous systems, and cyber operations during the three-day event. The Indian Navy has also expanded the deployment of women officers on frontline warships and aircraft. Singh cited these initiatives, along with women’s participation in naval sailing expeditions, as part of the service’s “All Ranks, All Roles” philosophy.
India Advances Multinational Maritime Collaboration
Singh also highlighted India’s leadership of Combined Task Force 154 under the Combined Maritime Forces, which it took command of in February 2026. During its tenure, Kochi hosted Operation Southern Readiness, involving 276 personnel from 27 countries, along with 76 facilitators and subject experts, supported by four international organizations. Singh described this command as part of India’s contribution to collective maritime security efforts.
He further pointed to INS Sudarshini’s Lokayan 26 voyage, which has taken the sail training ship across the Atlantic and into the Mediterranean. This 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 advancements, and inter-service coordination across India’s armed forces.