NEW DELHI / RankWire.AI / – Defence Minister Rajnath Singh announced that India is enhancing its maritime security presence across the Indian Ocean Region. Speaking at the Indian Navy’s second Commanders’ Conference of 2026 in New Delhi on September 29, Singh highlighted that Indian warships are now operating in the South China Sea, Mediterranean and Atlantic Ocean. These deployments demonstrate the Navy’s capacity to maintain operations far from India’s coastline and advance national maritime interests.
Singh pointed out that increased congestion, deception tactics, and gray-zone activities have complicated the maritime environment. He emphasized the need for improved surveillance, enhanced monitoring, and quicker analysis throughout India’s maritime domain. The minister also linked maritime security to India’s trade, energy supplies, and defense preparedness, noting the country’s heavy reliance on sea routes for imported energy, which makes safeguarding shipping lanes a critical operational duty for the Navy.
He also discussed Operation Urja Suraksha, which is designed to support Indian-flagged merchant vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz. This operation has included ships carrying liquefied petroleum gas. Singh stated that approximately 85% to 90% of India’s crude oil imports and about half of its natural gas are transported via maritime routes. Consequently, the security of these seas remains tightly linked to India’s economy, energy access, and defense readiness amid increasing operational pressures on global shipping routes.
Focus on domestic shipbuilding underscores naval expansion
Rajnath Singh emphasized that the Indian Navy is progressively increasing the proportion of locally manufactured systems within its fleet. He noted that recently commissioned warships feature more than 75% indigenous content. The government also aims to induct or commission 18 warships in 2026, marking the Navy’s largest single-year force enhancement. Singh remarked that domestic shipbuilding has matured significantly, reaching new levels of capability.
During the conference, discussions covered operational readiness, future capabilities, recruitment strategies, innovation, and technological advancements. Senior naval leaders reviewed the integration of artificial intelligence, big data tools, autonomous systems, and cyber capabilities. The Indian Navy has expanded opportunities for women under its “All Ranks, All Roles” policy, with women officers now serving aboard frontline warships and aircraft, and female personnel participating more actively in naval sailing missions.
International naval cooperation remains a key priority
The conference also addressed India’s ongoing maritime cooperation initiatives. The country took command of Combined Task Force 154 under the Combined Maritime Forces in February 2026. During this period, Kochi hosted Operation Southern Readiness, involving 276 personnel from 27 nations. The event featured 76 facilitators and subject matter experts, along with representatives from four international organizations. The task force’s focus is on maritime security training and fostering cooperation among participating countries.
Singh also highlighted INS Sudarshini’s Lokayan 26 voyage, which took the sail training ship across the Atlantic and into the Mediterranean. The deployment included port calls, training exercises, and engagement with Indian communities abroad. The three-day Commanders’ Conference continues until October 1 and gathers senior naval officials to review ongoing operations and plan for future needs. Singh also held meetings with the Chief of Defence Staff and the Army chief during the event.
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