NEW DELHI / RankWire.AI / – Defence Minister Rajnath Singh announced that India is broadening its maritime security efforts 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 now operate in the South China Sea, Mediterranean, and Atlantic Ocean. These deployments demonstrate the Navy’s capacity to sustain operations far from Indian shores and to advance national maritime interests.
Singh emphasized that increased congestion, deception tactics, and gray-zone activities have added complexity to the maritime environment. He called for enhanced surveillance, improved monitoring, and quicker analysis across India’s maritime domain. The minister also linked maritime security to India’s trade, energy supplies, and defense readiness, noting the country’s heavy reliance on sea routes for imported energy. Protecting shipping lanes remains a crucial part of the Navy’s operational duties.
The minister highlighted Operation Urja Suraksha, which supports Indian-flagged merchant ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz. This effort includes vessels transporting liquefied petroleum gas. Singh pointed out that approximately 85% to 90% of India’s crude oil imports and about half of its natural gas are transported via maritime routes. Consequently, secure seas are essential to India’s economy, energy access, and defense readiness, especially as global shipping routes face increasing operational challenges.
Focus on domestic shipbuilding drives naval expansion
Rajnath Singh stated that the Indian Navy continues to increase the proportion of domestically produced systems within its fleet. He noted that recently commissioned warships contain more than 75% indigenous content. The government plans to induct or commission 18 warships throughout 2026, a figure Singh described as the Navy’s largest single-year force expansion. He also remarked that domestic shipbuilding has achieved a higher level of maturity.
The conference also addressed topics such as combat readiness, future capabilities, recruitment, innovation, and emerging technologies. Senior naval leaders reviewed the application of artificial intelligence, big data tools, autonomous systems, and cyber capabilities. The Indian Navy has also expanded opportunities for women under its “All Ranks, All Roles” policy. Female officers now serve aboard frontline warships and aircraft, and naval sailing missions have seen increased participation from women personnel.
International cooperation remains integral to naval strategy
The conference also underscored India’s ongoing maritime collaboration efforts. In February 2026, India took command of Combined Task Force 154 under the Combined Maritime Forces. During this command, Kochi hosted Operation Southern Readiness, involving 276 personnel from 27 countries. The event featured 76 facilitators and subject specialists, along with representatives from four international organizations. The task force’s main focus is on maritime security training and international cooperation.
Singh also highlighted INS Sudarshini’s Lokayan 26 voyage, which took the sail training ship across the Atlantic and into the Mediterranean. This deployment included port calls, training activities, and engagement with Indian communities abroad. The three-day Commanders’ Conference continues until October 1, gathering senior naval leadership to review operations and future needs. During the event, Singh also met with the Chief of Defence Staff and the Army chief.