India’s Defence Minister, Rajnath Singh, underscored the escalating unconventional threats in the maritime domain, emphasizing the nation’s commitment to bolstering its naval capabilities to counter these challenges. Speaking at a naval event, Singh highlighted the dynamic and often volatile nature of the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), which has become a focal point for international power rivalries.
Singh pointed out that the IOR is witnessing a shift in global power dynamics, with significant implications for regional security. He noted that the region’s strategic importance has grown, making it a theater for international power plays. While he did not explicitly name any nation, analysts interpret his remarks as a veiled reference to China’s expanding naval presence. China, commanding the world’s largest naval force with over 370 ships, has been increasing its activities in the IOR, raising security concerns for India. This development comes in the wake of deteriorating Sino-Indian relations since the 2020 Himalayan border clashes, which resulted in casualties on both sides. Despite partial troop disengagement following an October agreement, tensions persist, underscoring the need for heightened maritime vigilance.
The Defence Minister emphasized the criticality of the IOR for global trade, with a substantial portion of the world’s commerce transiting through these waters. He stated that approximately 95% of India’s trade by volume is linked to the Indian Ocean, highlighting the direct correlation between maritime security and the nation’s economic prosperity. In light of this, Singh asserted that maintaining a robust naval presence is India’s foremost priority to safeguard its interests and ensure the security of maritime routes.
In response to the evolving security landscape, India has outlined ambitious plans to expand its naval fleet to 175 ships by 2035, with a pronounced focus on indigenous manufacturing. This initiative aligns with the broader ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ (Self-Reliant India) vision, aiming to reduce dependence on foreign defense imports and bolster domestic defense production capabilities. However, challenges persist, as India’s current shipbuilding rate lags behind that of China, which constructs approximately 14 warships annually compared to India’s four. This disparity underscores the urgency for India to accelerate its naval modernization efforts to effectively counterbalance regional power dynamics.
Singh also addressed the multifaceted nature of emerging maritime threats, extending beyond traditional state actors to include non-state entities engaging in piracy, terrorism, and trafficking. He highlighted recent incidents in the western Indian Ocean, where merchant vessels have been subjected to drone attacks and hijacking attempts, bringing to light the pressing challenges in the maritime domain. These events underscore the necessity for a proactive and well-prepared naval force capable of responding to a spectrum of unconventional threats.
To effectively navigate these challenges, Singh called for enhanced multinational cooperation and adherence to international maritime laws, as enshrined in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) 1982. He advocated for a collaborative approach among Indian Ocean littoral states to establish a rule-based maritime order that deters hegemonic ambitions and ensures equitable access to shared resources. This collective security framework is envisioned to address common concerns such as illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, which poses significant risks to ocean ecosystems and the economic security of coastal communities.
In line with these objectives, the Indian Navy has been actively engaging in capacity-building initiatives and joint exercises with neighboring countries. These efforts aim to enhance interoperability, share best practices, and foster a unified response to maritime challenges. The recent commissioning of indigenous naval assets, including submarines and warships, signifies India’s commitment to strengthening its maritime defense infrastructure. These platforms are equipped with advanced technologies designed to detect and neutralize unconventional threats, thereby augmenting the Navy’s operational readiness.
Singh also underscored the importance of technological innovation in maritime security. He highlighted the integration of cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence, drones, and cyber capabilities into naval operations. This technological infusion is aimed at enhancing situational awareness, decision-making, and response efficacy in the face of complex maritime threats. The Defence Minister emphasized that transitioning towards a technology-oriented force is imperative to effectively address both conventional and emerging challenges in the maritime domain.
Rajnath Singh’s address serves as a clarion call for a comprehensive reassessment of maritime security strategies in the Indian Ocean Region. By acknowledging the spectrum of unconventional threats and advocating for collaborative, technology-driven responses, India aims to fortify its maritime frontiers and contribute to regional stability. The path forward necessitates a blend of strategic foresight, indigenous capability development, and robust international partnerships to navigate the complexities of contemporary maritime security challenges.
