As part of its ambitious modernization plans, the Indian Navy is poised for significant growth and transformation. Speaking to BharatShakti Editor-in-Chief Nitin A. Gokhale in an exclusive interview on the eve of Navy Day, Chief of Naval Staff (CNS) Admiral DK Tripathi outlined the Navy’s vision for the future. Navy Day, observed on December 4, commemorates the 1971 war’s iconic Karachi harbour attack, one of the Navy’s most outstanding wartime achievements.
Admiral Tripathi emphasized that while the Navy’s current fleet strength stands at 129 platforms—including ships and submarines—the focus has shifted towards enhancing capability and combat readiness. “The numbers may not have grown to the desired level, but our ships’ tonnage and technological sophistication have increased significantly. We are now a more modern and combat-capable Navy,” he said. The Admiral expressed optimism that this growth trajectory would accelerate in the next five years, with the Navy aiming to commission an average of one ship or submarine every month over the next year.
Growth Amidst Indigenous Efforts
The modernization drive is heavily centred on indigenous construction, a hallmark of the Indian Navy for over five decades. Admiral Tripathi revealed that 63 ships and submarines are currently under construction at Indian shipyards, while two additional ships are being built in Russia and will be delivered soon. If this pace continues, the Navy envisions expanding to over 160 platforms within five years.
“Our aim is to ensure that the Indian Ocean remains safe, secure, and stable,” Admiral Tripathi stated. “We are committed to protecting India’s maritime and national security interests, particularly as 95% of our trade by volume traverses through the oceans. Beyond this, we will continue to assist friendly foreign nations in the region whenever needed, serving as the first responder for maritime requirements.”
Harnessing Advanced Technologies
The Navy’s modernization plans also prioritize incorporating cutting-edge technologies, particularly in the underwater domain. “We are focusing on new technologies to enhance underwater domain awareness, combat readiness, and surveillance capabilities,” Admiral Tripathi disclosed. The Navy has several classified projects under development, including advanced underwater platforms and unmanned systems.
Highlighting the role of indigenous capability, the CNS added, “Our predator drones, with extended endurance and operational reach, will bolster our unmanned capabilities. I am confident that our indigenous technological capacity will grow further, allowing us to meet future requirements from domestic sources.”
A Vision for Regional Leadership
The Indian Navy’s broader vision is to establish itself as the largest and most capable maritime force in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). Admiral Tripathi stressed the importance of maintaining stability in the region and safeguarding maritime interests, not just for India but for neighbouring countries as well. “Our aim is to ensure that the Indian Ocean remains safe and secure while contributing to the stability of the region. We are committed to strengthening our maritime partnerships and providing assistance to friendly nations on demand,” he said.
The Navy’s modernization journey underscores its commitment to becoming a formidable force in the IOR, equipped with state-of-the-art platforms and technologies. With a focus on indigenous innovation and regional leadership, the Indian Navy is well on its way to achieving its ambitious goals, ensuring that India’s maritime interests remain secure for decades to come.
Team BharatShakti
