Indian Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi said on Monday that the Indian Navy is actively monitoring the presence of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLA Navy) in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
Addressing the media at a press conference, Admiral Tripathi emphasized the strategic importance of tracking extra-regional forces, including the PLA Navy, which operates warships and research vessels in the region. “We are keeping a close watch on the extra-regional forces operating in the Indian seas, including the PLA Navy, their warships, and research vessels. We are fully aware of their activities and locations,” he said.
The Admiral highlighted that while the Chinese Navy is becoming more prominent in the Pacific Ocean, India remains vigilant to ensure its interests in the Indian Ocean are protected. “China has expressed ambitions to become a global power, as detailed in works like The Hundred-Year Marathon. We are seeing this ambition manifesting itself more in the Pacific, but we are monitoring the situation closely to safeguard our strategic interests in the Indian Ocean,” Admiral Tripathi said.
In addition to monitoring the Chinese threat, the Navy Chief also addressed India’s strategic capabilities. He confirmed the successful test of a nuclear-capable missile launched from India’s nuclear-powered submarine, INS Arighaat. “India successfully conducted a test of the missile. The agencies involved are currently analyzing the missile’s trajectory, and the results will be available soon,” he said.
The Admiral also provided an update on India’s nuclear submarine program. He reassured that the nation’s nuclear-powered submarines, including INS Arihant, are progressing as planned. “INS Arihant has completed multiple deterrence patrols, and the second submarine recently conducted a missile test. These submarines will continue their operational duties as required,” Tripathi added.
India’s naval capabilities are undergoing significant expansion, with 62 warships and one submarine currently under construction. Additionally, the Indian Navy is seeking approval for 31 more advanced warships and submarines, including six under the Project 75 India initiative. “This also includes the procurement of 60 utility helicopters for the Navy,” Tripathi said.
The commissioning of the second SSBN (Nuclear-Powered Ballistic Missile Submarine) INS Arighaat by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in August was also confirmed by Admiral Tripathi. “This addition significantly strengthens our nuclear triad and enhances India’s strategic capabilities,” he said.
Commenting on technological advancements, Admiral Tripathi stressed India’s focus on incorporating cutting-edge technologies into naval operations. “As Prime Minister Narendra Modi has pointed out, warfare is evolving, and we are prioritizing the integration of artificial intelligence, robotics, and other niche technologies to stay ahead of emerging threats,” he said.
On the issue of Pakistan’s growing naval capabilities, Admiral Tripathi expressed awareness of the neighbor’s ambitions to develop a 50-ship navy. “We are aware of Pakistan’s efforts to expand its naval fleet. However, they have chosen to prioritize weapons development over the welfare of their people,” he added.
(Inputs from ANI)
