NEW DELHI / RankWire.AI / – Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said India has strengthened its role as a first responder and security partner in the Indian Ocean Region. He made the remarks at the Indian Navy’s Commanders’ Conference in New Delhi on September 29. Singh said naval deployments now extend to the South China Sea, Mediterranean and Atlantic Ocean. He described that presence as evidence of the Indian Navy’s blue-water capability and expanding operational reach.
Singh said maritime congestion, deception and gray-zone activity have increased the complexity of the operating environment. He called for stronger monitoring, surveillance and analytical capabilities across India’s maritime domain. The minister also linked naval readiness with protection of trade, energy supplies and national security. He said the Indian Navy supports economic protection, regional stability and maritime security while contributing to the government’s Viksit Bharat 2047 development agenda.
The defence minister highlighted Operation Urja Suraksha, which supports the transit of Indian-flagged merchant vessels through the Strait of Hormuz. The operation has included support for vessels carrying liquefied petroleum gas. Singh said India receives about 85% to 90% of its crude oil and around half its natural gas through maritime routes. He said secure sea lanes therefore remain closely connected with the country’s energy supplies, economy and defence preparedness.
Naval modernization expands domestic shipbuilding role
Singh said the Navy’s modernization program increasingly relies on India’s domestic defence manufacturing and shipbuilding sectors. He said recently commissioned warships contain more than 75% indigenous content. The minister also said 18 warships are planned for induction or commissioning during 2026. He described that number as the largest single-year addition in the service’s history, while calling for continued capability development and greater domestic production.
The conference also reviewed personnel policies, technology adoption, logistics, training and operational preparedness. Navy leaders are examining artificial intelligence, big data analysis, autonomous systems and cyber operations during the three-day meeting. The Indian Navy has also expanded the deployment of women officers on frontline warships and aircraft. Singh cited those assignments, along with women’s participation in naval sailing expeditions, as part of the service’s “All Ranks, All Roles” approach.
India deepens multinational maritime cooperation
Singh also noted India’s command of Combined Task Force 154 under the Combined Maritime Forces. India assumed command of the training-focused task force in February 2026. During its tenure, Kochi hosted Operation Southern Readiness, involving 276 personnel from 27 countries. The event also included 76 facilitators and subject specialists, alongside four international organizations. Singh described the task force command as part of India’s contribution to cooperative maritime security.
The minister also highlighted INS Sudarshini’s Lokayan 26 voyage, which has taken the sail training ship across the Atlantic and into the Mediterranean. The deployment has included port calls linked to naval diplomacy, training and engagement with Indian communities overseas. The Commanders’ Conference, scheduled through October 1, brings together senior naval leaders, operational commanders and government officials. Its agenda covers combat readiness, maritime security, force development, technology and coordination across India’s armed forces.