The Indian Navy has launched an investigation into a serious collision involving one of its submarines and a fishing vessel named Marthoma. The incident occurred approximately 70 nautical miles northwest of Goa, prompting an immediate response from naval and coast guard authorities.

Onboard the Marthoma were 13 crew members; tragically, two individuals are still unaccounted for following the incident, while the remaining 11 have been successfully rescued. The submarine was on patrol along India’s western coastline when the collision took place.

In the aftermath, a coordinated search and rescue operation was quickly activated by both the Indian Navy and the Coast Guard. This multi-faceted operation has involved the deployment of several ships and aircraft tasked with locating the two missing crew members.

A spokesperson for the Navy confirmed on Friday that the search efforts are being overseen by the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) in Mumbai. They stated, “Additional assets, including those from the Coast Guard, have been diverted to the area to support the efforts. Coordinated search and rescue operations for the remaining crew of Marthoma are in progress.”

The spokesperson further indicated that an internal inquiry has been ordered to investigate the circumstances surrounding this unfortunate incident. The priority remains high for ongoing search and rescue operations aimed at finding the two missing crew members. The situation is being monitored closely as authorities work diligently to ensure the safety and recovery of those involved.

The Indian Navy is set to enhance its capabilities significantly with the government’s approval of its nuclear-powered attack submarine (SSN) program. Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh Tripathi announced on Monday that the first indigenous SSN is expected to be ready by 2036, while a second submarine from the program will be delivered within a two-year timeframe.

During the annual press conference, Admiral Tripathi emphasized that these submarines will play a crucial role in strengthening the Navy’s power projection and in safeguarding the nation’s interests. He also pointed out that this ambitious program is designed to energize the domestic defense ecosystem, thus creating opportunities for Indian industries and promoting self-reliance in defense production.

In addition to the SSN program, Admiral Tripathi remarked on the recent commissioning of INS Arighat, which serves as India’s second nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN). This new submarine marks a significant advancement in India’s nuclear deterrence capabilities. Currently undergoing trials, including missile tests, INS Arighat is being prepared for its operational role in deterrence patrols.

The Navy Chief also highlighted the achievements of INS Arihant, India’s first SSBN, which has successfully completed multiple deterrence patrols, thereby establishing a credible second-strike capability—an essential element of the nation’s nuclear strategy.

On another front, Admiral Tripathi indicated that negotiations for three additional Scorpene-class submarines, developed in partnership with France’s Naval Group under Project-75, are nearing completion, with contracts anticipated to be finalized in the next two months. With five Scorpene submarines already operational, these latest additions are expected to enhance India’s conventional underwater warfare capabilities significantly. The Scorpene submarines are characterized by their advanced stealth features and precision-strike capabilities.

Furthermore, the discussions for acquiring six more submarines under Project 75 India are also reaching advanced stages. Admiral Tripathi confirmed the successful testing of the K4 submarine-launched ballistic missile, asserting that such advancements strengthen India’s deterrent capacity.

Addressing strategic concerns, Admiral Tripathi noted the importance of India’s submarine fleet as a counterbalance to increasing maritime activities from China and Pakistan in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). While acknowledging Pakistan’s ambitious plans to expand its naval fleet to 50 ships—despite economic limitations—he expressed concern over China’s strategic investments in submarine technology aimed at global maritime dominance.

“China’s intent, resources, and vision to become a world power are clear. However, we are committed to ensuring that India’s interests remain uncompromised,” Admiral Tripathi stated. He reiterated the Navy’s focus on developing a modern, self-reliant force capable of securing Indian interests across all domains, with the submarine fleet remaining a vital component of this strategic transformation.

Dehradun recently witnessed a significant educational initiative as part of the ongoing Navy Week 2024 celebrations, which honor the Indian Navy’s pivotal role during the 1971 Indo-Pak war. The National Hydrographic Office (NHO) played host to a group of over 400 cadets from the Indian Military Academy (IMA) from November 26 to November 29.

The visits aimed to provide the cadets with an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the operational functions of the NHO, which plays a crucial role in maritime navigation and safety. Throughout their time at the office, the cadets were engaged in guided tours that showcased various sections of the facility, allowing them to observe the technological capabilities and strategic processes involved in hydrography.

These educational interactions are critical not only for fostering knowledge about naval operations but also for strengthening the bond between the armed forces and future leaders. The activities associated with Navy Week serve to keep the legacy of the Indian Navy alive, celebrating its accomplishments while inspiring the next generation of military personnel.

The annual observance of Navy Day is not merely a commemoration of past victories; it’s also a reminder of the ongoing dedication and modernization of India’s naval capabilities. This year’s events underscore the importance of preparing the future generations of cadets who will eventually carry forward this proud heritage, ensuring that they are equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to excel in their future roles.

The Indian government is making significant strides in enhancing its naval capabilities with the recent approval for the construction of two indigenously designed nuclear attack submarines. This move is set to be complemented by a series of contracts expected to be finalized next month for the procurement of 26 naval variants of Rafale jets and three additional Scorpene submarines, revealed Navy chief Admiral Dinesh Tripathi during a press conference ahead of Navy Day.

Admiral Tripathi emphasized the need for vigilance in light of increasing Chinese naval activities in the Indian Ocean. He highlighted the unexpected expansion of the Pakistan Navy, particularly given the country’s economic challenges, noting that the eight newly constructed submarines will considerably enhance its combat capabilities.

In response to regional threats, the Indian Navy is recalibrating its strategies to effectively address potential incursions within its operational domains. The Navy chief expressed confidence in the force’s readiness to confront threats from neighboring nations, reinforcing India’s commitment to regional security.

Looking ahead, Admiral Tripathi outlined plans for the induction of approximately 95 ships over the next decade, with a vision of establishing a robust naval presence by 2047. This initiative aims to solidify India’s position as a formidable maritime power and ensure credible deterrence against external aggression.

Regarding the nuclear attack submarines, Admiral Tripathi provided a timeline for their commissioning, stating that the first submarine is expected to be operational by 2036-37, followed by the second two years later. He underscored the substantial capabilities that these submarines will bring to the Indian Navy, marking a significant advancement in India’s strategic defense infrastructure.

In addition to the submarines, the procurement of 26 Rafale-Marine jets from France, intended for deployment on the indigenously built aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, is also on track. This acquisition is part of a government-to-government framework and is progressing through the acquisition process. The Navy chief expressed optimism that both the contracts for the Scorpene submarines and the Rafale-Marine jets would be signed by next month, barring any unforeseen delays.

The defense ministry’s approval last year for the acquisition of these Rafale jets and the additional Scorpene submarines underscores India’s commitment to fortifying its naval capabilities in an increasingly complex regional security scenario. As these developments unfold, the Indian Navy is poised to enhance its operational readiness and strategic depth in the years to come.

In a recent media briefing, Vice-Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar, the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Eastern Naval Command (ENC), outlined ambitious plans for the expansion of the Indian Navy’s infrastructure in the region. His comments came in advance of Navy Day as he discussed future developments for INS Dega, a significant military airport in Visakhapatnam.

With the imminent commissioning of a green-field international airport at Bhogapuram in Vizianagaram district, approximately 40 kilometers from the city, Vice-Admiral Pendharkar emphasized that the Navy is preparing to enhance its operational capabilities. He highlighted the expected induction of Rafale aircraft at INS Dega, which will complement existing aircraft stationed along the eastern seaboard. This expansion aims to facilitate the accommodation of more aircraft and improve the overall infrastructure at the facility.

The GMR Visakhapatnam International Airport Limited has projected that the Bhogapuram airport will be completed by June 2026, with the capacity to handle large wide-bodied aircraft. This development is poised to increase the strategic importance of military operations at INS Dega in the coming years.

During the briefing, Vice-Admiral Pendharkar spoke about the aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, which is now officially part of the ENC and is currently operating off the eastern coast. He mentioned the necessity of creating additional infrastructure, including a dedicated jetty for berthing the massive carrier. Work on the naval outer harbor project is already underway, with plans to bring INS Vikrant to permanent station in Visakhapatnam upon its completion. The aircraft carrier is expected to continue its operations in the region until the necessary facilities are ready.

While discussing future naval capabilities, Vice-Admiral Pendharkar confirmed that plans for a third aircraft carrier are still in the preliminary stages, with some initial approvals being sought. He noted that no definitive decision has been made regarding the project as discussions continue.

The Vice-Admiral also addressed the increasing integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in naval operations, stating that the Navy is exploring low-end applications of AI technology. This initiative allows personnel to adapt and implement AI in various operational contexts. Current capabilities include the use of drones for surveillance, quadcopters for monitoring naval vessels, and plans to develop advanced underwater autonomous systems. The Navy is also focusing on enhancing capabilities for surface vessels with innovative technological solutions.

As the Eastern Naval Command works towards these significant enhancements, the focus remains on bolstering India’s maritime defense capabilities in line with evolving geopolitical dynamics.

Kochi has emerged as a focal point for the Indian Navy’s innovative approach towards environmentally sustainable operations, with Vice Admiral V Srinivas, the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Southern Naval Command, highlighting the Navy’s exploration of hydrogen fuel technology. During a media interaction aboard the naval ship INS Shardul, he explained that collaboration with agencies such as Cochin Shipyard Ltd (CSL) is pivotal in promoting greener fuel alternatives.

“We are in constant contact with various agencies working on fuels like hydrogen. Cochin Shipyard has developed small crafts, and we are collaborating with them. Also, we have always been actively promoting environment-friendly fuels and operations,” he stated. This proactive engagement aims to align the Navy with global sustainability standards, ensuring that environmentally friendly practices are prioritized across naval operations in India.

The Vice Admiral also shared encouraging news regarding the Navy’s success in combating narcotic trafficking at sea. He noted a reduction in narcotic seizures compared to the previous year, attributing this success to enhanced vigilance and collaborative efforts with agencies like the Coast Guard and state government departments. “We have a robust structure to apprehend such operations,” he emphasized.

In the context of India’s push for self-reliance under the Atmanirbhar Bharat mission, Vice Admiral Srinivas assured that the Southern Naval Command is fully committed to advancing indigenization efforts. This includes significant contributions in technology exports, with ongoing projects spanning aviation, indigenous shipbuilding, and the development of essential spare parts and equipment for submarines and aircraft. He mentioned the establishment of the Centre for Indigenisation and Self-Reliance (CISR) in Coimbatore, which is crucial to these efforts.

The Vice Admiral also provided updates on infrastructure developments, confirming that the reconstruction of the North Jetty at Naval Base Kochi is on track and expected to be operational by January next year. This upgrade is part of broader efforts to enhance the Navy’s capabilities and operational readiness.

In terms of training and recruitment, he revealed that the fifth batch of 3,000 trainees from the Navy and Coast Guard, as part of the Agniveer recruitment scheme, commenced their training at INC Chilka on November 18. These individuals will further their training at the Southern Naval Command, emphasizing the Navy’s commitment to developing a skilled workforce.

Furthermore, Vice Admiral Srinivas highlighted the Navy’s dedication to promoting gender equality within its ranks, noting that women now hold significant positions such as Commanding Officers and Executive Commanders. The recruitment of women trainees under the Agniveer scheme is also a testament to the Navy’s commitment to providing equal opportunities across all operational roles. This inclusive strategy aims to empower women to play vital roles in the future of the Indian Navy.