Navy Day, celebrated annually on December 4 since 1972, marks a significant moment in India’s maritime history, honoring the Indian Navy’s triumphs during the 1971 war with Pakistan. On this day, the Indian Navy executed a daring missile boat strike on Karachi, inflicting considerable damage to the Pakistan Navy and setting a precedent for naval operations in the region.

As this Navy Day approaches, there is rising concern over the rapid modernization of Pakistan’s navy, significantly aided by its partnership with China. The ambition of Pakistan to develop a formidable naval fleet of 50 ships, along with enhanced underwater and surface combat capabilities, poses new challenges to the maritime balance in South Asia.

Indian Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi addressed these concerns on December 2, emphasizing the alarming growth of the Pakistan Navy, which seeks to augment its capabilities with advanced weaponry despite prioritizing military expenditures over societal welfare. He highlighted that Pakistan is bolstering its naval strength with comprehensive support from China, including the procurement of eight new submarines, which exhibit notable combat potential.

In 2015, Pakistan formalized a $5 billion agreement with China for the acquisition of eight Hangor-class submarines, which are an export variant of the Type 039A/041 Yuan-class submarines boasting air-independent propulsion. This arrangement includes the construction of four submarines in China, with subsequent assembly of the remaining vessels occurring at the Karachi Shipyard and Engineering Works (KSEW). The launch of the first submarine in April this year marked a significant milestone in Beijing’s pivotal role in enhancing Pakistan’s maritime capabilities.

Furthermore, Pakistan is set to receive two additional Type 054 A/P frigates from China. These frigates come equipped with sophisticated systems, such as the HHQ-16 surface-to-air missiles and CM-401 supersonic anti-ship missiles, which significantly bolster Pakistan’s surface-combat prowess. In addition, the conversion of two Embraer Lineage 1000 jets into maritime patrol aircraft, equipped with advanced sensors and weaponry, further expands Pakistan’s surveillance and strike capabilities.

Experts suggest that China’s proactive involvement in the naval modernization of Pakistan is part of a broader strategy aimed at countering India’s influence in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). The acquisition of the Hangor-class submarines and advanced frigates is seen as a step towards enhancing Pakistan’s operational capabilities in contested waters, thereby posing a potential challenge to India’s longstanding naval superiority.

With concerns mounting regarding the stealth capabilities of the Hangor-class submarines, Indian naval strategists are revising their operational doctrines to counter emerging threats from the region. In response to Pakistan’s military advancements, the Indian Navy is prioritizing its indigenous shipbuilding programs, fast-tracking innovative projects, including the P-75I submarines, equipped with advanced air-independent propulsion technology, as well as commissioning new surface combatants like the Vishakhapatnam-class destroyers and Nilgiri-class frigates.

Currently, a substantial number of vessels, including 62 ships and one submarine, are under construction in India, reflecting the Navy’s commitment to enhancing its maritime capabilities. Admiral Tripathi confirmed that several platforms are set to be inducted into the Navy in the coming year, with focused efforts being made to integrate niche technologies into the force.

These developments take place amid growing global interest in the Indo-Pacific region. Key partners such as the United States, Japan, and Australia, who form part of the Quad, are increasingly collaborating with India to uphold a free and open Indo-Pacific. Joint maritime exercises, like the Malabar exercises, are integral to these partnerships, fostering interoperability and enhancing collective capabilities to counter Chinese assertiveness.

While the Indian Navy continues to be the dominant maritime force in South Asia, Pakistan’s accelerated naval build-up, with Chinese backing, signals a formidable challenge to India’s regional supremacy. As Navy Day approaches, this historical celebration not only reflects on past victories but also underscores the importance of adapting to evolving maritime challenges in a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape.

The Ministry of Defence has officially inked a deal with Cochin Shipyard Limited for the Short Refit and Dry Docking (SRDD) of the INS Vikramaditya, with a total investment of Rs. 1207.5 crores. This contract, signed on November 30, 2024, marks a significant investment in enhancing the operational capabilities of the Indian Navy.

INS Vikramaditya, a flagship aircraft carrier, was commissioned into service in November 2013 and has since played a pivotal role in bolstering the naval strength of India. The forthcoming refit is expected to upgrade the vessel’s combat capabilities, ensuring it remains a crucial asset in the Indian Navy’s active fleet upon completion.

This SRDD project is not only vital for the operational readiness of the INS Vikramaditya but also serves to strengthen Cochin Shipyard Limited’s position as a leading Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) hub. By involving around 50 Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), the project is anticipated to generate employment opportunities for more than 3,500 individuals, thus contributing significantly to the local economy.

Moreover, the initiative aligns with the Government of India’s overarching goals of promoting self-reliance through the Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India initiatives. By focusing on domestic capabilities and the involvement of local industries, this project stands as a testament to the nation’s commitment to fostering an independent and robust industrial ecosystem. As the refit progresses, it will not only enhance the naval fleet but also pave the way for greater collaboration between the defence sector and local businesses, generating sustained economic growth and innovation.

In a recent address, Navy Chief Admiral DK Tripathi emphasized India’s vigilant approach towards the naval activities of neighboring countries, particularly highlighting the increasing capabilities of the Pakistan Navy, which is reportedly receiving substantial support from China. Admiral Tripathi acknowledged the “surprising growth” of the Pakistan Navy, noting their ambitious plan to expand to a fleet of 62 ships and one submarine, a development that he described as concerning.

During his remarks, he reinforced that the Indian Navy is actively monitoring not just the activities of the Pakistan Navy but also those of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Navy. “We are keeping a watch on extra-regional forces, including the PLA Navy, their warships, and their research vessels, and know what they are doing and where they are,” he stated. His comments reflect a broader concern over China’s military partnership with Pakistan, which he indicated is aimed at bolstering Pakistan’s maritime power.

Admiral Tripathi highlighted that the collaboration between China and Pakistan on naval capabilities includes the construction of multiple warships and submarines, with particular emphasis on the delivery of eight new submarines that could enhance the combat abilities of the Pakistan Navy. Despite this, he assured that India remains fully aware of the capabilities of these naval developments and is adapting its strategies accordingly. “That is why we are tweaking our concepts to be able to tackle all threats from our neighbours,” he said.

Further commenting on Pakistan’s military focus, Admiral Tripathi remarked, “They have chosen weapons over the welfare of their people,” implying that the resources allocated to military enhancement come at the cost of the nation’s social and economic development.

In addition to addressing regional threats, Admiral Tripathi shared key updates on India’s own naval advancements. He confirmed plans to finalize agreements for the acquisition of 26 naval Rafale fighter aircraft and three additional Scorpene submarines by January. The government has also approved the construction of two nuclear-powered submarines, with aspirations to have a total of six SSNs operational in the future. The first of these submarines is projected to be completed by 2036-37, followed by the second in 2038-39.

He expressed optimism regarding the procurement of Rafale-M jets from France, indicating that negotiations are in their final stages. He mentioned that the process is nearing a point where it could soon be presented to the Cabinet Committee on Security for approval. The Rafale-M jets are intended primarily for operations from India’s domestically manufactured aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant.

Admiral Tripathi anticipates that, barring any unforeseen delays, the agreements for both the Scorpene submarines and Rafale-M projects could be signed either by the end of this month or the next, solidifying India’s commitment to enhancing its naval capabilities amidst rising geopolitical tensions in the region.

New Delhi: In a significant update regarding the guided missile frigate INS Brahmaputra, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh Tripathi has confirmed that the ship has been successfully returned to an upright position. This announcement comes nearly five months after the vessel experienced a fire incident while undergoing routine refits at the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai, which led to its tilting.

During the unfortunate event, the ship’s crew faced a tragic loss as Leading Seaman Sitendra Singh was reported missing. Following an extensive diving operation carried out by the Navy, he was eventually declared dead. This incident not only highlights the dangers associated with naval operations but also underscores the harrowing reality faced by the families of those who serve.

To address the damage incurred by the fire and to facilitate the recovery efforts, the Navy enlisted the assistance of a team of international experts, including a specialized firm from Singapore. Their expertise has been crucial in assessing the extent of the damage and planning the necessary salvaging operations.

At the recent annual Navy Day press conference in New Delhi, Admiral Tripathi expressed relief at the progress made, stating, “We had an unfortunate incident onboard INS Brahmaputra which led to its tilting. I am happy to report that the ship has been righted and is presently in a dry dock in Mumbai for assessing the extent of damage, and thereafter we will decide as to what is to be done with the ship and to what level you want to take it.” He emphasized that a board of inquiry is currently underway to investigate the fire and subsequent capsizing, which will ultimately determine the cause of this alarming incident.

The fire was initially detected by the ship’s duty staff during routine maintenance work and was brought under control with the combined efforts of the crew and dockyard firefighters. However, the situation escalated, leading to the ship tilting and resting precariously on one side.

As the Navy works to evaluate the damage and plan the next steps, the incident serves as a somber reminder of the inherent risks faced by maritime forces and the importance of safety protocols during naval operations.

In a notable development for the Indian Navy, the Eastern Naval Command (ENC) has announced an operational demonstration (Op Demo) scheduled to take place at RK Beach in Visakhapatnam on January 4, 2025. This supplementary event will replace the traditional Navy Day operational demonstration, which is typically held on December 4 each year. Vice-Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar, the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the ENC, shared the details during a media briefing ahead of the upcoming Navy Day celebrations.

In line with the Union Government’s initiative to host Navy Day celebrations in different cities and historical locations, the Navy Day 2024 festivities will be held at Puri Beach in Odisha, where President Droupadi Murmu is expected to attend as the chief guest. The operational demonstration aims to highlight the capabilities and versatility of the Indian Navy, showcasing a range of naval ships, submarines, aircraft, and Special Forces.

Although the people of Visakhapatnam will miss the annual December event, they can look forward to the additional Op Demo in January, with Chief Minister Nara Chandra Babu Naidu confirmed as the chief guest for the occasion. The Navy Week in Vizag will feature several activities, including a Band Concert, interactions with veterans, and opportunities for children to visit naval ships.

Vice-Admiral Pendharkar underscored the Navy’s commitment to ensuring a free, open, safe, and inclusive maritime space in accordance with an internationally recognized rules-based order. He emphasized the Navy’s objective to remain “Combat Ready, Credible, Cohesive, and Future Ready,” ensuring the safeguarding of national maritime interests at all times.

Discussing future capabilities, Vice-Admiral Pendharkar highlighted the steady progress in the Navy’s capability enhancement plans. This includes the recent commissioning of INS Sandhayak, the first vessel in the Survey Vessel (Large) Project, on February 3 of this year at the Naval Dockyard, Visakhapatnam. The second ship, Nirdeshak, was delivered in October and is set to be commissioned on December 18.

The scheduled commissioning of the first Nilgiri Class Frigate, commencing with Nilgiri, and the first Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft, with Arnala, are also on the horizon. Additionally, the Navy is integrating a multitude of unmanned and autonomous platforms into its operations. The initial deployment of rotary UAVs from naval ships marks a significant step forward. Other projects, including autonomous surface vessels like ‘Matangi’ and various subsurface platforms, are progressing through their developmental stages.

Vice-Admiral Pendharkar also provided an update on the ongoing infrastructure initiatives within the Navy, noting over Rs 1,200 crore worth of projects currently in various stages of execution. Noteworthy among these is the laying of the foundation stone for a Very Low Frequency (VLF) Station in Vikarabad, a project that is expected to significantly enhance long-distance naval communication capabilities. To accommodate the expected growth of naval assets in Visakhapatnam, augmentation projects for the berthing space in the Naval Dockyard are also underway.

In a significant development for India’s naval defense capabilities, Indian Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh Tripathi addressed the successful test firing of the 3,500-km range solid-fuelled K-4 submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM) from the INS Arighaat. The missile’s trajectory is currently under analysis by relevant agencies, with Admiral Tripathi confirming that the missile was launched successfully. However, it was noted that while the launch itself was a success, the missile may not have met all performance parameters as expected.

The test, conducted recently, marked the first time the K-4 missile was launched from a submarine, following previous tests conducted from a fixed underwater pontoon. This advancement is critical for India’s strategic capabilities, as it showcases the operational readiness of the INS Arighaat, which can carry up to 12 K-15 or four K-4 missiles. In contrast, the INS Arihant, which has previously operated the shorter-range K-15 SLBM with a capability of 750 km, falls short in terms of range, making the K-4 missile’s capabilities a vital addition to India’s nuclear triad.

During a media briefing, Admiral Tripathi emphasized that the K-4 missile did not carry a warhead during the test. The Navy Chief’s comments came in response to inquiries regarding the test’s success, affirming that while the missile had been launched successfully, further evaluations on its flight path and overall performance were ongoing. The completion of these assessments is necessary for a comprehensive understanding of the missile’s capabilities.

India maintains a unique position among a select group of nations with the ability to launch nuclear missiles from land, air, and undersea platforms. This capability significantly enhances India’s deterrence posture in the region. As the Navy prepares for subsequent tests of the K-4 missile, the focus remains on ensuring that it meets the strategic requirements laid out by the armed forces.

Admiral Tripathi also hinted at larger plans for India’s nuclear attack submarine capabilities, although details were not disclosed during the briefing. The advancements in submarine-launched ballistic missile technology signify a pivotal moment for India’s defense initiatives, reinforcing its commitment to bolstering national security in a complex geopolitical landscape.

India is moving forward with plans to procure 26 Rafale Marine warplanes, with the deal expected to be finalized in the coming year. This announcement came from Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi during the annual Navy Day press conference. He noted that negotiations for the Rafale Marine deal are currently at an advanced stage and are just one step away from being presented to the Cabinet Committee on Security.

The Rafale Marine aircraft is the naval version of the Rafale jets that have already been integrated into the Indian Air Force (IAF). India had previously acquired 36 Rafale jets for the IAF in 2016, with the first aircraft entering service in 2020. The ongoing discussions indicate a significant push towards strengthening the Indian Navy’s capabilities through modern aviation assets.

Admiral Tripathi also mentioned plans to enhance the naval fleet by purchasing three additional Scorpene-class submarines, which are diesel-powered attack submarines manufactured in France. The move to acquire these submarines aligns with India’s objective to bolster its maritime defense.

Reports have suggested that India is negotiating the Rafale Marine deal at a considerable discount, indicating France’s willingness to support India’s defense procurement endeavors. The French government is reportedly committed to aiding India’s self-reliance initiative, Aatmanirbhar Bharat, by offering a comprehensive transfer of technology. This includes manufacturing the Rafale warplanes and the Safran aircraft engines domestically in India.

Furthermore, it has been reported that the French manufacturer, Dassault, has reduced the overall cost of the Rafale Marine deal by nearly 500 million euros, which could facilitate quicker approval and finalization of the agreement. This development signifies a strategic partnership between India and France, aimed at enhancing the Indian Navy’s operational capabilities while fostering local manufacturing in the defense sector.