In an effort to enhance India’s naval capabilities, Navy Chief Admiral DK Tripathi has highlighted the ongoing monitoring of activities involving the navies of China and Pakistan. During a media briefing prior to Navy Day, which is celebrated on December 4, Admiral Tripathi referred specifically to the construction of eight new submarines for Pakistan, attributing significant support from China in bolstering the naval strength of its ally.
He pointed out that the support from China is evident in the construction of numerous warships and submarines for the Pakistan Navy. “Their eight new submarines will have significant combat potential for the Pakistan Navy, but we are fully aware of their capabilities,” he stated. The Admiral emphasized the need for the Indian Navy to adapt its strategies to effectively counter the threats posed by neighboring nations.
The Navy Chief also expressed concern over what he described as the “surprising growth” of the Pakistan Navy, which is ambitiously aiming to expand its fleet to 50 ships. “They have chosen weapons over the welfare of their people,” he remarked, underscoring India’s vigilance in the face of this development.
In terms of India’s own modernization plans, Admiral Tripathi affirmed that 62 ships and one submarine are currently under construction within the country, aimed at strengthening the Indian Navy’s operational capabilities. Moreover, the government has greenlighted the development of two nuclear-powered submarines (SSNs), with the intention of eventually operating a total of six such vessels. The first of these submarines is projected to be ready by 2036-37, followed by the second in 2038-39.
On the procurement front, the Navy Chief indicated that India is poised to finalize contracts for 26 naval variant Rafale fighter jets and three additional Scorpene submarines in the imminent future. “Rafale Marine is at an advanced stage of negotiations and is only one level short of taking it to the Cabinet Committee on Security. Given that it is a government-to-government deal, it is expected to proceed swiftly,” he noted. This move follows approval from the defense ministry in July of the previous year to purchase Rafale-M jets from France, which are intended for operations aboard the indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant.
Admiral Tripathi expressed optimism about concluding these agreements soon, stating, “We expect that if not this month, then next month hopefully, both these (Scorpene submarine) and Rafale-M (project) should be signed.”
He also reassured that the Indian Navy is keeping a close watch on extra-regional forces, including the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Navy and its various operations. “We know what they are doing and where they are,” he said, emphasizing the strategic awareness of the Indian Navy amidst rising regional tensions.
Looking ahead, Admiral Tripathi affirmed that a considerable number of naval platforms are expected to be inducted in the coming year, with at least one ship joining the fleet soon. He concluded his remarks by discussing the navy’s commitment to integrating advanced technologies into its operations, underscoring the ongoing modernization efforts within the force.
