The Indian Navy on Monday (Oct 6, 2025) commissioned 'Androth', the second Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft, during a ceremonial event at the Naval Dockyard in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, according to a report by PTI.

The Indian Navy on Monday (Oct 6, 2025) commissioned 'Androth', the second Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft, during a ceremonial event at the Naval Dockyard in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, according to a report by PTI.

What is INS Androth? New anti-submarine warfare craft inducted into Indian Navy

The Indian government's shipbuilding hub that is to be established in the Thoothukudi district of the Southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu would be capable of constructing naval warships or cargo ships, based on demand, said Sarbananda Sonowal, the country's Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways. He elaborated that the shipbuilding hub would be capable of building Very Large Crude Carriers(VLCC), which are ships that can carry almost two million barrels of crude oil. The Minister was speaking at the Government-run Indian Maritime University's(IMU) 10th Convocation, which saw over 2,100 students graduatingRecently, the Indian Government announced that its defence firms Cochin Shipyard Limited(CSL) and Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited(MDL) have inked MoUs with the Tamil Nadu Government to invest a total of Rs 30,000 crore ($3.4bn) for establishing a shipbuilding hub in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, about 600 km south of the capital city Chennai. On the specifics of the project, it was mentioned that the Detailed Project Report(DPR) is to be prepared. A DPR is a comprehensive document that outlines a project's technical, financial, economic, legal, and environmental aspects.CSL is the builder of India's first indigenous aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant, which has been serving the Indian Navy since 2022. CSL also builds a wide range of commercial ships and tugs for foreign Governments and private entities. MDL is known for building under license the French-origin Scorpene diesel-electric stealth submarines that are in service with the Indian Navy. MDL has also built India's frontline destroyer warships of the Kolkata-class and Visakhapatnam-class, among others.Addressing the Convocation, Minister Sonowal said that India's prosperity and security are linked to the seas, and that investment in the maritime sector is being scaled up to 80 lakh crores(over $90bn). "Today, 9 of our ports rank in the Top 100 ports of the world, our port's turnaround time of 0.9 days is better than advanced maritime nations. We are constructing one of the largest container ports of the world at Vadhawan, north of Mumbai, Maharashtra," he said.Referring to India's share in the seafaring profession, the Minister said that India had 1.25 lakh seafarers a decade ago, and today that number has grown to more than 3 lakhs. "India now ranks among the top three nations in the supply of the highest number of seafarers."Emphasising the need for building and repairing cargo ships in India, the Minister stated that only about 5percent of the Export-Import cargo is carried on Indian owned/Indian-flagged vessels, resulting in Rs 6 lakh crores being paid annually to foreign sea freight service providers.Via virtual mode, the Minister also inaugurated the Rs 305cr India Ship Technology Centre(ISTC) at the Visakhapatnam IMU campus, which will be responsible for the overall development of the capabilities of the Indian shipbuilding sector. The centre is meant to provide a common platform for the Indian shipbuilding industry by providing access to common facilities, skilling of future personnel, providing an ecosystem for ship design, R&amp;D, engineering capabilities, among others. The facility is expected to foster collaborations between IMU, shipyards, research institutions, Government bodies, and create an ecosystem for knowledge exchange.

Addressing the Convocation, Minister Sonowal said that India's prosperity and security are linked to the seas, and that investment in the maritime sector is being scaled up to 80 lakh crores(over $90bn).

The Indian government's shipbuilding hub that is to be established in the Thoothukudi district of the Southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu would be capable of constructing naval warships or cargo ships, based on demand, said Sarbananda Sonowal, the country's Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways. He elaborated that the shipbuilding hub would be capable of building Very Large Crude Carriers(VLCC), which are ships that can carry almost two million barrels of crude oil. The Minister was speaking at the Government-run Indian Maritime University's(IMU) 10th Convocation, which saw over 2,100 students graduating Recently, the Indian Government announced that its defence firms Cochin Shipyard Limited(CSL) and Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited(MDL) have inked MoUs with the Tamil Nadu Government to invest a total of Rs 30,000 crore ($3.4bn) for establishing a shipbuilding hub in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, about 600 km south of the capital city Chennai. On the specifics of the project, it was mentioned that the Detailed Project Report(DPR) is to be prepared. A DPR is a comprehensive document that outlines a project's technical, financial, economic, legal, and environmental aspects. CSL is the builder of India's first indigenous aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant, which has been serving the Indian Navy since 2022. CSL also builds a wide range of commercial ships and tugs for foreign Governments and private entities. MDL is known for building under license the French-origin Scorpene diesel-electric stealth submarines that are in service with the Indian Navy. MDL has also built India's frontline destroyer warships of the Kolkata-class and Visakhapatnam-class, among others. Addressing the Convocation, Minister Sonowal said that India's prosperity and security are linked to the seas, and that investment in the maritime sector is being scaled up to 80 lakh crores(over $90bn). "Today, 9 of our ports rank in the Top 100 ports of the world, our port's turnaround time of 0.9 days is better than advanced maritime nations. We are constructing one of the largest container ports of the world at Vadhawan, north of Mumbai, Maharashtra," he said. Referring to India's share in the seafaring profession, the Minister said that India had 1.25 lakh seafarers a decade ago, and today that number has grown to more than 3 lakhs. "India now ranks among the top three nations in the supply of the highest number of seafarers." Emphasising the need for building and repairing cargo ships in India, the Minister stated that only about 5percent of the Export-Import cargo is carried on Indian owned/Indian-flagged vessels, resulting in Rs 6 lakh crores being paid annually to foreign sea freight service providers. Via virtual mode, the Minister also inaugurated the Rs 305cr India Ship Technology Centre(ISTC) at the Visakhapatnam IMU campus, which will be responsible for the overall development of the capabilities of the Indian shipbuilding sector. The centre is meant to provide a common platform for the Indian shipbuilding industry by providing access to common facilities, skilling of future personnel, providing an ecosystem for ship design, R&D, engineering capabilities, among others. The facility is expected to foster collaborations between IMU, shipyards, research institutions, Government bodies, and create an ecosystem for knowledge exchange.

Addressing the Convocation, Minister Sonowal said that India's prosperity and security are linked to the seas, and that investment in the maritime sector is being scaled up to 80 lakh crores(over $90bn).

$3.4bn shipyard in Tamil Nadu to build naval, cargo ships: Govt

In a significant move concerning India's maritime and shipbuilding sectors, government companies Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) and Mazagon Dock Limited (MDL) have inked MoUs with the Tamil Nadu government to invest a total of Rs 30,000crore ($3.4bn) in the Southern state. Making the announcement, Tamil Nadu Industries Minister Dr. TRB Rajaa said that investment is for establishing of shipbuilding hub in Thoothukudi district, about 600kms south of the state capital city Chennai. "This is going to be important for national security amid the present geopolitical situation," Rajaa said.&nbsp;CSL is the builder of India's first indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, which has been serving the Indian Navy since 2022. CSL also builds a wide range of commercial ships and tugs for foreign Governments and private entities. MDL is known for building under licence, the French-origin Scorpene diesel-electric stealth submarines that are in service with the Indian Navy. MDL has also build India's frontline destroyer warships of the Kolkata-class and Visakhapatnam-class, among others.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-stay-in-the-country-for-now-amazon-advises-h-1b-and-h-4-visa-holders-amid-100k-fee-rule-and-new-us-immigration-policies-1758354459671">'Stay in the country for now': Amazon advises H-1B and H-4 visa holders amid $100K fee rule and new US immigration policies</a>&nbsp;Elaborating on the investments, TRB Rajaa said that both firms have inked an MoU with the Tamil Nadu government to invest Rs15,000cr each, and that these investments would create a total of 55,000 direct and indirect jobs. On the overall development that this project would bring to Thoothukudi, Rajaa said that shipbuilding isn't only about iron and steel, and it involves a host of other allied industries, all of which would flourish in the region. He also acknowledged that the Tamil Nadu government worked closely with the Central government to get these investments.&nbsp;On the planned start of the project, he said without elaborating further, "work will commence soon, important CEOs and international delegates are to come". He added that while Tamil Nadu is a leader in sectors such as automobiles, automobile parts, electronics manufacturing, leather, the state government is looking to diversify and facilitate investments from diverse sectors. &nbsp;Already, L&amp;T operates their Kattupalli shipbuilding and ship repair facility near Chennai, where vessels for the Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard are built. Further, the facility also has agreements with the US Navy to repair their ships. Auxiliary ships of the UK Royal Navy have also undergone repairs at the Kattupalli facility. The addition of the shipbuilding hub in Thoothukudi is expected to increase the significance of the region.

Indian government to setup shipbuilding hub for $3.4bn in Tamil Nadu

In a significant move concerning India's maritime and shipbuilding sectors, government companies Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) and Mazagon Dock Limited (MDL) have inked MoUs with the Tamil Nadu government to invest a total of Rs 30,000crore ($3.4bn) in the Southern state. Making the announcement, Tamil Nadu Industries Minister Dr. TRB Rajaa said that investment is for establishing of shipbuilding hub in Thoothukudi district, about 600kms south of the state capital city Chennai. "This is going to be important for national security amid the present geopolitical situation," Rajaa said. CSL is the builder of India's first indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, which has been serving the Indian Navy since 2022. CSL also builds a wide range of commercial ships and tugs for foreign Governments and private entities. MDL is known for building under licence, the French-origin Scorpene diesel-electric stealth submarines that are in service with the Indian Navy. MDL has also build India's frontline destroyer warships of the Kolkata-class and Visakhapatnam-class, among others. Also Read: 'Stay in the country for now': Amazon advises H-1B and H-4 visa holders amid $100K fee rule and new US immigration policies Elaborating on the investments, TRB Rajaa said that both firms have inked an MoU with the Tamil Nadu government to invest Rs15,000cr each, and that these investments would create a total of 55,000 direct and indirect jobs. On the overall development that this project would bring to Thoothukudi, Rajaa said that shipbuilding isn't only about iron and steel, and it involves a host of other allied industries, all of which would flourish in the region. He also acknowledged that the Tamil Nadu government worked closely with the Central government to get these investments. On the planned start of the project, he said without elaborating further, "work will commence soon, important CEOs and international delegates are to come". He added that while Tamil Nadu is a leader in sectors such as automobiles, automobile parts, electronics manufacturing, leather, the state government is looking to diversify and facilitate investments from diverse sectors. Already, L&T operates their Kattupalli shipbuilding and ship repair facility near Chennai, where vessels for the Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard are built. Further, the facility also has agreements with the US Navy to repair their ships. Auxiliary ships of the UK Royal Navy have also undergone repairs at the Kattupalli facility. The addition of the shipbuilding hub in Thoothukudi is expected to increase the significance of the region.

Cochin Shipyard Limited is the builder of India's first indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, which has been serving the Indian Navy since 2022

In a first-of-its-kind feat in Indian Naval aviation, the Indian Navy's fleet of P8i aircraft based at INS Rajali in Tamil Nadu has completed over 50,000hours of flying. The fleet of P8i aircraft at INS Rajali is known as the Albatross Squadron and is designated as Indian Naval Air Squadron(INAS) 312. The Boeing Poseidon P8i aircraft is used for diverse roles, including Long Range Maritime Reconnaissance, Anti-submarine warfare, Anti-piracy operations, search and rescue, among others.&nbsp;The Indian Navy operates a dozen-strong fleet of P8i aircraft (customised military versions of the passenger jet Boeing 737-800) at its frontline Naval air bases INS Rajali in Tamil Nadu and INS Hansa in Goa. Operating from these bases, the P8i fleet monitors and safeguards India's maritime interests in the vast Indian Ocean Region and beyond.&nbsp;&nbsp;Poseidon P8i uses multiple onboard sensors, systems, and tactics to hunt for submarines at specific regions in the vast ocean. They can drop sonobuoys, which are expendable listening devices that are capable of detecting submarines based on the typical underwater noises emitted. Variants of sonobuoys can also emit sound waves and detect any echo that may be reflected from a potential target submarine. The data collected by the sonobuoys deployed across a wide area are transmitted to the plane that deploys them.&nbsp;Aircraft like the P8i carry sophisticated imaging sensors that can operate in all-weather conditions, providing conventional imagery or thermal imagery. This is augmented by radars that help detect targets from afar. Further, there are Electronic intelligence gathering systems to detect any communications or signals emitted by submarines.&nbsp;&nbsp;While flying low and slow, the P8i can use its Magnetic Anomaly Detector(MAD), a protruding device near the plane's tail, which can detect subtle distortions in the Earth's magnetic field caused by a large metallic body such as a submarine.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Indian Navy has been operating the US-origin P-8i since 2013 and is the first International customer for the Boeing-made aircraft. In addition to the US Navy and Indian Navy, the P-8 aircraft are also operated by the Royal Australian Air Force, the United Kingdom's Royal Air Force, and the Royal Norwegian Air Force.&nbsp;Sharing his perspective on the INAS 312 Squadron's feat of flying the P8i for over 50,000hours in an incident-free manner, Commodore RS Vasan (Retd), Director General of the Chennai Centre for China Studies, said that this was a phenomenal achievement for any maritime reconnaissance plane. He highlighted that the Indian Navy's Poseidons have been deployed in the Indo-Pacific, and they have visited Australia and the US as part of military exercises and have performed exceptionally well. Kudos to the Indian Navy's Poseidon crew, maintenance teams, planners and strategists, Vasan said, hailing the 50,000 hours of flying as a proud moment in India's Maritime Operations.&nbsp;&nbsp;This aircraft is most sought after by India's tri-services because of the sensors, weapons capability, and the unmatched reach and range that it offers. Being on our side of the border, it can gather the intelligence that is required for our tri-services. After the Galwan incident with China, India deployed the Navy's P8i along the China border to gather a lot of field Intelligence, he added. Beyond detecting and tracking submarines, the plane can also engage submarines using the Mark 54 torpedo or engage surface ships using the Harpoon missile.&nbsp;&nbsp;India is reportedly exploring opportunities to procure six more Poseidon aircraft from American plane maker Boeing. Referring to the future deployment of India's Poseidon aircraft, Commodore Vasan (Retd) said that a part of the fleet could be based at Port Blair, in the Andamans off India's East Coast. For now, the P8i fleet is based in Goa and Tamil Nadu in the Indian mainland and they have proven their capability to operate on both seaboards, but in future, they could be based at the Andaman archipelago for monitoring our areas of interest in that region, he explained.&nbsp;&nbsp;India's P8i aircraft have played a major role in Anti-piracy operations and anti-hijacking operations in the Red Sea, and search and rescue operations in the Indian Ocean region, including the search for the 39-member crew of the sunken Chinese fishing vessel Lu Peng Yuan Yu 028, back in May 2023.&nbsp;

The Indian Navy's P8i Poseidon fleet at INS Rajali has surpassed 50,000 flying hours, marking a major milestone in maritime surveillance and anti-submarine warfare. Operating since 2013, these aircraft play a critical role in India's defense strategy across the Indo-Pacific and Indian Ocean.

In a first-of-its-kind feat in Indian Naval aviation, the Indian Navy's fleet of P8i aircraft based at INS Rajali in Tamil Nadu has completed over 50,000hours of flying. The fleet of P8i aircraft at INS Rajali is known as the Albatross Squadron and is designated as Indian Naval Air Squadron(INAS) 312. The Boeing Poseidon P8i aircraft is used for diverse roles, including Long Range Maritime Reconnaissance, Anti-submarine warfare, Anti-piracy operations, search and rescue, among others. The Indian Navy operates a dozen-strong fleet of P8i aircraft (customised military versions of the passenger jet Boeing 737-800) at its frontline Naval air bases INS Rajali in Tamil Nadu and INS Hansa in Goa. Operating from these bases, the P8i fleet monitors and safeguards India's maritime interests in the vast Indian Ocean Region and beyond. Poseidon P8i uses multiple onboard sensors, systems, and tactics to hunt for submarines at specific regions in the vast ocean. They can drop sonobuoys, which are expendable listening devices that are capable of detecting submarines based on the typical underwater noises emitted. Variants of sonobuoys can also emit sound waves and detect any echo that may be reflected from a potential target submarine. The data collected by the sonobuoys deployed across a wide area are transmitted to the plane that deploys them. Aircraft like the P8i carry sophisticated imaging sensors that can operate in all-weather conditions, providing conventional imagery or thermal imagery. This is augmented by radars that help detect targets from afar. Further, there are Electronic intelligence gathering systems to detect any communications or signals emitted by submarines. While flying low and slow, the P8i can use its Magnetic Anomaly Detector(MAD), a protruding device near the plane's tail, which can detect subtle distortions in the Earth's magnetic field caused by a large metallic body such as a submarine. The Indian Navy has been operating the US-origin P-8i since 2013 and is the first International customer for the Boeing-made aircraft. In addition to the US Navy and Indian Navy, the P-8 aircraft are also operated by the Royal Australian Air Force, the United Kingdom's Royal Air Force, and the Royal Norwegian Air Force. Sharing his perspective on the INAS 312 Squadron's feat of flying the P8i for over 50,000hours in an incident-free manner, Commodore RS Vasan (Retd), Director General of the Chennai Centre for China Studies, said that this was a phenomenal achievement for any maritime reconnaissance plane. He highlighted that the Indian Navy's Poseidons have been deployed in the Indo-Pacific, and they have visited Australia and the US as part of military exercises and have performed exceptionally well. Kudos to the Indian Navy's Poseidon crew, maintenance teams, planners and strategists, Vasan said, hailing the 50,000 hours of flying as a proud moment in India's Maritime Operations. This aircraft is most sought after by India's tri-services because of the sensors, weapons capability, and the unmatched reach and range that it offers. Being on our side of the border, it can gather the intelligence that is required for our tri-services. After the Galwan incident with China, India deployed the Navy's P8i along the China border to gather a lot of field Intelligence, he added. Beyond detecting and tracking submarines, the plane can also engage submarines using the Mark 54 torpedo or engage surface ships using the Harpoon missile. India is reportedly exploring opportunities to procure six more Poseidon aircraft from American plane maker Boeing. Referring to the future deployment of India's Poseidon aircraft, Commodore Vasan (Retd) said that a part of the fleet could be based at Port Blair, in the Andamans off India's East Coast. For now, the P8i fleet is based in Goa and Tamil Nadu in the Indian mainland and they have proven their capability to operate on both seaboards, but in future, they could be based at the Andaman archipelago for monitoring our areas of interest in that region, he explained. India's P8i aircraft have played a major role in Anti-piracy operations and anti-hijacking operations in the Red Sea, and search and rescue operations in the Indian Ocean region, including the search for the 39-member crew of the sunken Chinese fishing vessel Lu Peng Yuan Yu 028, back in May 2023.

The Indian Navy's P8i Poseidon fleet at INS Rajali has surpassed 50,000 flying hours, marking a major milestone in maritime surveillance and anti-submarine warfare. Operating since 2013, these aircraft play a critical role in India's defense strategy across the Indo-Pacific and Indian Ocean.

50,000 hours of submarine hunting: Milestone for Indian Navy's P8i fleet

The following examines the six largest navies in Asia, highlighting not only the number of ships but also the distribution of destroyers, submarines, and aircraft carriers, offering a clear picture of the region’s maritime strength.

The following examines the six largest navies in Asia, highlighting not only the number of ships but also the distribution of destroyers, submarines, and aircraft carriers, offering a clear picture of the region’s maritime strength.

Asia’s 6 largest navies ranked by ships, submarines and carriers: See where India stands..

The Indian Navy's fire tenders and a Seaking helicopter have been assisting in fighting the blaze at a shore-based facility of East India Petroleum Limited(EIPL) in the southeastern Indian city of Visakhapatnam. The Navy said that the blaze has been brought under control and that dousing operations are in progress. No lives have been lost in the incident.&nbsp;East India Petroleum Pvt. Ltd.(EIPL) is a private firm that operates a port-based facility for the receipt, storage, and handling of Petroleum, Oil and Lubricants, products, petrochemicals, and LPG. Their facility is located at the Visakhapatnam port in Andhra Pradesh.The fire at the facility reportedly broke out on 7th September, afternoon, following a lightning strike on a methanol tanker. In the immediate aftermath of the incident, fire and foam tender trucks from nearby industries, fire department, the port, petrochemical firms, Indian Navy had responded promptly and undertook firefighting operations.&nbsp;&nbsp;On Monday,&nbsp;September 8, the Indian Navy's Seaking helicopter was deployed with an underslung bucket to assist in dousing the blaze from up above. The helicopter undertook multiple sorties from the Naval air station INS Dega, dropping large quantities of water and foam over the seat of the fire, helping lower the temperature and suppressing the flames.&nbsp;

The Indian Navy's fire tenders and a Seaking helicopter have been assisting in fighting the blaze at a shore-based facility of East India Petroleum Limited(EIPL) in the southeastern Indian city of Visakhapatnam.

The Indian Navy's fire tenders and a Seaking helicopter have been assisting in fighting the blaze at a shore-based facility of East India Petroleum Limited(EIPL) in the southeastern Indian city of Visakhapatnam. The Navy said that the blaze has been brought under control and that dousing operations are in progress. No lives have been lost in the incident. East India Petroleum Pvt. Ltd.(EIPL) is a private firm that operates a port-based facility for the receipt, storage, and handling of Petroleum, Oil and Lubricants, products, petrochemicals, and LPG. Their facility is located at the Visakhapatnam port in Andhra Pradesh. The fire at the facility reportedly broke out on 7th September, afternoon, following a lightning strike on a methanol tanker. In the immediate aftermath of the incident, fire and foam tender trucks from nearby industries, fire department, the port, petrochemical firms, Indian Navy had responded promptly and undertook firefighting operations. On Monday, September 8, the Indian Navy's Seaking helicopter was deployed with an underslung bucket to assist in dousing the blaze from up above. The helicopter undertook multiple sorties from the Naval air station INS Dega, dropping large quantities of water and foam over the seat of the fire, helping lower the temperature and suppressing the flames.

The Indian Navy's fire tenders and a Seaking helicopter have been assisting in fighting the blaze at a shore-based facility of East India Petroleum Limited(EIPL) in the southeastern Indian city of Visakhapatnam.

Navy helps fight fire at Visakhapatnam petrochemical facility

The Indian Navy has commissioned two advanced stealth frigates—INS Udaygiri and INS Himgiri—under Project 17A, in a historic ceremony at the Naval Base in Visakhapatnam on August 26, 2025.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh presided over the event, marking the first time two frontline warships built at different Indian shipyards were commissioned simultaneously. INS Udaygiri was built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders (MDL), Mumbai, and INS Himgiri by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata.

Indian navy gets two state-of-the-art stealth frigates in its fleet

The Indian Navy has commissioned two advanced stealth frigates—INS Udaygiri and INS Himgiri—under Project 17A, in a historic ceremony at the Naval Base in Visakhapatnam on August 26, 2025.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh presided over the event, marking the first time two frontline warships built at different Indian shipyards were commissioned simultaneously. INS Udaygiri was built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders (MDL), Mumbai, and INS Himgiri by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata.

Both frigates are equipped with state-of-the-art stealth features, weapons systems, and sensors, and were designed in-house by the Navy’s Warship Design Bureau (WDB). Udaygiri is the 100th warship designed by the bureau, symbolizing India's growing defence self-reliance.

India commissions two state-of-the-art stealth frigates in its fleet

What's the secret behind the beautiful and powerful names of Indian missiles, aircraft carriers, and other military assets? Shedding the colonial naming conventions, India has in the past decades turned to Hindu mythology, cosmology and uniquely Indian legends and concepts 
 

What's the secret behind the beautiful and powerful names of Indian missiles, aircraft carriers, and other military assets? Shedding the colonial naming conventions, India has in the past decades turned to Hindu mythology, cosmology and uniquely Indian legends and concepts&nbsp; &nbsp;

From Agni to Sudarshan Chakra: Hindu mythology and Indian cosmology in names of missiles, defence systems and assets of navy, army, air force

The Philippines' envoy to the UK has said that the Indian Navy is the only one that 'goes where it pleases', expressing his admiration after the two nations recently conducted joint exercises not too far away from the South China Sea, where his country is engaged in frequent tussles with the Chinese Navy.&nbsp;"The Indian Navy is the only one with the balls to go where it pleases; Western navies sing a cappella like castrati," wrote Teodoro "Teddy Boy" Lopez Locsin Jr, who was a former foreign minister of the Philippines, on X. Castrati is a reference to male singers who were castrated before puberty to preserve their high vocal range for singing, mainly in church choirs and opera houses.The Filipino politician and lawyer-journalist was responding to a discussion on X about the recent India-Philippines exercises.<h2>The India-Philippines joint navy drills</h2>Ahead of a state visit to India by the Philippines' President Ferdinand Marcos Jr, the two navies held the joint drill in the West Philippine Sea in the Indo-Pacific. One analyst described it as 'waters that fall within the broader South China Sea and are claimed by China.' Correcting the analyst, an X user wrote: "It is not China's maritime backyard. The exercise took place inside Philippines EEZ [Exclusive Economic Zone]. It's thousands of kilometres away from Chinese mainland."Teodoro "Teddy Boy" Lopez Locsin Jr's response came while commenting on that post.The India-Philippines patrol in the region are not new, with the navies having held such joint drills in the West Philippine Sea in 2021 as well.&nbsp; Giving some context to the latest drills, another X user joined the conversation, agreeing that the Philippine EEZ is not China’s “maritime backyard'. "India’s presence challenges that narrative without needing QUAD cover. Locsin’s praise signals interest in deeper defence links with India. &nbsp;For Delhi, this is both a DIPLOMATIC lever and a signalling opportunity to show it can project power far from home waters. &nbsp;But repetition matters more than a one-off exercise," the X user with the handle 'Normal Guy' wrote."Western navies’ caution comes from alliance politics and escalation management with China. India’s freer hand gives tactical room, but sustaining credibility means building logistics support in Southeast Asia and keeping deployments regular, not reactive," wrote the user.<h2>'Your turn will come: PM Modi's recent praise for Indian Navy after Operation Sindoor</h2>According to recent reports, the Indian Navy was on the verge of action during &nbsp;Operation Sindoor, the Indian military's response to Pahalgam terror attacks orchestrated from Pakistan, when a sudden ceasefire was announced.&nbsp;Meeting the chiefs of Indian forces, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi told the Navy chief on May 10, &nbsp;“I have snatched the morsel out of your mouth, but your turn will come.”He was speaking after the Indian Navy was told to stand down from launching a BrahMos missile attack on Karachi port, according to a recent report in the Hindustan Times newspaper.&nbsp; &nbsp;

The Filipino politician and lawyer-journalist was responding to a discussion on X about the recent India-Philippines exercises not too far away from the South China Sea.
 

The Philippines' envoy to the UK has said that the Indian Navy is the only one that 'goes where it pleases', expressing his admiration after the two nations recently conducted joint exercises not too far away from the South China Sea, where his country is engaged in frequent tussles with the Chinese Navy. "The Indian Navy is the only one with the balls to go where it pleases; Western navies sing a cappella like castrati," wrote Teodoro "Teddy Boy" Lopez Locsin Jr, who was a former foreign minister of the Philippines, on X. Castrati is a reference to male singers who were castrated before puberty to preserve their high vocal range for singing, mainly in church choirs and opera houses. The Filipino politician and lawyer-journalist was responding to a discussion on X about the recent India-Philippines exercises. The India-Philippines joint navy drills Ahead of a state visit to India by the Philippines' President Ferdinand Marcos Jr, the two navies held the joint drill in the West Philippine Sea in the Indo-Pacific. One analyst described it as 'waters that fall within the broader South China Sea and are claimed by China.' Correcting the analyst, an X user wrote: "It is not China's maritime backyard. The exercise took place inside Philippines EEZ [Exclusive Economic Zone]. It's thousands of kilometres away from Chinese mainland." Teodoro "Teddy Boy" Lopez Locsin Jr's response came while commenting on that post. The India-Philippines patrol in the region are not new, with the navies having held such joint drills in the West Philippine Sea in 2021 as well. Giving some context to the latest drills, another X user joined the conversation, agreeing that the Philippine EEZ is not China’s “maritime backyard'. "India’s presence challenges that narrative without needing QUAD cover. Locsin’s praise signals interest in deeper defence links with India. For Delhi, this is both a DIPLOMATIC lever and a signalling opportunity to show it can project power far from home waters. But repetition matters more than a one-off exercise," the X user with the handle 'Normal Guy' wrote. "Western navies’ caution comes from alliance politics and escalation management with China. India’s freer hand gives tactical room, but sustaining credibility means building logistics support in Southeast Asia and keeping deployments regular, not reactive," wrote the user. 'Your turn will come: PM Modi's recent praise for Indian Navy after Operation Sindoor According to recent reports, the Indian Navy was on the verge of action during Operation Sindoor, the Indian military's response to Pahalgam terror attacks orchestrated from Pakistan, when a sudden ceasefire was announced. Meeting the chiefs of Indian forces, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi told the Navy chief on May 10, “I have snatched the morsel out of your mouth, but your turn will come.” He was speaking after the Indian Navy was told to stand down from launching a BrahMos missile attack on Karachi port, according to a recent report in the Hindustan Times newspaper.

The Filipino politician and lawyer-journalist was responding to a discussion on X about the recent India-Philippines exercises not too far away from the South China Sea. &nbsp;

'Indian Navy is the only one with...': Philippines envoy to UK praises India's maritime muscle after Indo-Pacific joint drills

INS Udaygiri and INS Himgiri are fully designed by the Warship Design Bureau of the Indian Navy, with Udaygiri being the 100th ship designed in-house. Along with supporting 200 MSMEs, this project is creating about 4,000 direct jobs and over 10,000 indirect jobs.

INS Udaygiri and INS Himgiri are fully designed by the Warship Design Bureau of the Indian Navy, with Udaygiri being the 100th ship designed in-house. Along with supporting 200 MSMEs, this project is creating about 4,000 direct jobs and over 10,000 indirect jobs.

Indian Navy indigenous warships 'INS Udaygiri' and 'INS Himgiri' to be commission on Aug 26: Check details inside

The Indian Navy will commission INS Nistar, its first indigenously designed and built Diving Support Vessel (DSV), at Hindustan Shipyard Limited in Visakhapatnam on Friday. The ceremony, presided over by Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth, &amp; Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi and marks an important moment in India’s quest for self-reliance or Atmanirbharta in defence manufacturing.&nbsp;The DSV has 80% indigenous content and the involvement of 120 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), &amp; showcases India's growing ability to construct sophisticated naval platforms rivalling international standards.The 10,500-ton vessel, stretching 120 meters long and over 20 meters wide, is equipped for deep-sea diving and submarine rescue missions. The advanced saturation diving complex spans multiple decks, supported by Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs) and a Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicle (DSRV). As a mothership for the DSRV, Nistar can evacuate personnel from distressed submarines, a capability critical to India’s growing underwater fleet.&nbsp;"Main roles of the vessel include undertaking deep-sea diving and conducting rescue operations from distressed submarines", an Indian Navy statement said. The vessel’s dynamic positioning system ensures stability during complex operations, while its onboard hospital, complete with ICU and hyperbaric facilities, enhances its life-saving potential. Helicopter operations further enable rapid deployment, reinforcing Nistar’s versatility.&nbsp;The commissioning of Nistar comes at a time when geopolitical tensions have been a worry for India, from the Gulf of Aden to its west, to the wider Indo-Pacific region in the east. With its crest—an anchor symbolising maritime dominance, encircled by a dolphin denoting fair weather—and its motto, “Deliverance with Precision and Bravery,” the vessel's commissioning shows India’s strategic ambitions. The vessel joins the Eastern Naval Command, bolstering the Navy's operational preparedness along its eastern seaboard, which is increasingly a critical theatre.&nbsp;This milestone positions India among a select group of nations with dedicated DSV capabilities, signalling its technological and strategic ascent. The vessel’s indigenous roots also highlight India’s growing defence ecosystem, reducing reliance on foreign suppliers and fostering economic resilience.&nbsp;"Commissioning of Nistar highlights India's steadfast progress towards achieving indigenisation in defence manufacturing and the Indian Navy's resolve towards strengthening its capabilities in the underwater domain", the Navy statement pointed out. &nbsp;

The commissioning of Nistar comes at a time when geopolitical tensions have been a worry for India, from the Gulf of Aden to its west, to the wider Indo-Pacific region in the east.

The Indian Navy will commission INS Nistar, its first indigenously designed and built Diving Support Vessel (DSV), at Hindustan Shipyard Limited in Visakhapatnam on Friday. The ceremony, presided over by Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth, & Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi and marks an important moment in India’s quest for self-reliance or Atmanirbharta in defence manufacturing. The DSV has 80% indigenous content and the involvement of 120 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), & showcases India's growing ability to construct sophisticated naval platforms rivalling international standards. The 10,500-ton vessel, stretching 120 meters long and over 20 meters wide, is equipped for deep-sea diving and submarine rescue missions. The advanced saturation diving complex spans multiple decks, supported by Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs) and a Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicle (DSRV). As a mothership for the DSRV, Nistar can evacuate personnel from distressed submarines, a capability critical to India’s growing underwater fleet. "Main roles of the vessel include undertaking deep-sea diving and conducting rescue operations from distressed submarines", an Indian Navy statement said. The vessel’s dynamic positioning system ensures stability during complex operations, while its onboard hospital, complete with ICU and hyperbaric facilities, enhances its life-saving potential. Helicopter operations further enable rapid deployment, reinforcing Nistar’s versatility. The commissioning of Nistar comes at a time when geopolitical tensions have been a worry for India, from the Gulf of Aden to its west, to the wider Indo-Pacific region in the east. With its crest—an anchor symbolising maritime dominance, encircled by a dolphin denoting fair weather—and its motto, “Deliverance with Precision and Bravery,” the vessel's commissioning shows India’s strategic ambitions. The vessel joins the Eastern Naval Command, bolstering the Navy's operational preparedness along its eastern seaboard, which is increasingly a critical theatre. This milestone positions India among a select group of nations with dedicated DSV capabilities, signalling its technological and strategic ascent. The vessel’s indigenous roots also highlight India’s growing defence ecosystem, reducing reliance on foreign suppliers and fostering economic resilience. "Commissioning of Nistar highlights India's steadfast progress towards achieving indigenisation in defence manufacturing and the Indian Navy's resolve towards strengthening its capabilities in the underwater domain", the Navy statement pointed out.

The commissioning of Nistar comes at a time when geopolitical tensions have been a worry for India, from the Gulf of Aden to its west, to the wider Indo-Pacific region in the east.

India to commission Indigenous Diving Support Vessel, bolstering Navy's prowess

A new era in naval defence has dawned for India with the successful development and user trials of the&nbsp;Extended Range Anti-Submarine Rocket (ERASR). This powerful, fully indigenous weapon system is poised to transform the Indian Navy's capabilities, acting as a formidable "underwater guardian" that can detect and neutralise hidden submarine threats from significantly greater distances. Its induction marks a pivotal moment in India's journey towards true self-reliance in cutting-edge defence technology.As the global maritime landscape becomes increasingly complex, with advanced submarines operating with enhanced stealth and sophistication, the ERASR offers India a crucial strategic advantage. It empowers the Indian Navy to maintain a vigilant watch over vast oceanic regions, safeguarding its extensive coastline and vital national interests in the Indian Ocean.<h2>Beyond the Horizon: Extending India's Reach Below the Waves</h2>Previously, the Indian Navy's anti-submarine rockets had a limited engagement range of up to 5.3 kilometres. While effective for close-range combat, this offered minimal reaction time against faster, more elusive underwater adversaries. The ERASR dramatically expands this strike envelope to approximately&nbsp;8.5 km – an impressive increase of nearly 60%. This extended reach means the Navy can now identify and neutralise threats much earlier, and from a safer standoff distance, significantly bolstering its defensive and offensive capabilities.The technological advancements embedded in ERASR are a testament to India's engineering prowess. Unlike older systems that relied on a single-stage motor, ERASR incorporates a&nbsp;two-stage solid propulsion system. This innovative design enables the rocket to efficiently cover both short and long distances with remarkable accuracy. Further enhancing its precision is a specialised, indigenously developed&nbsp;Electronic Time Fuze, engineered to ensure the warhead detonates at the optimal moment, maximising the chances of destroying the target.Between June 23 and July 7, 2025, the Indian Navy conducted a comprehensive series of user trials for the ERASR system from its advanced warship, INS Kavaratti. A total of 17 rockets were test-fired under authentic sea conditions, with each performing flawlessly. These rigorous trials meticulously evaluated the rocket's maximum range performance, the flawless operation of its electronic fuze, and the warhead's precise targeting accuracy. The resounding success of these trials, officially announced by the Press Information Bureau on the evening of July 8, confirms ERASR's readiness for immediate induction into regular Navy service.<h2>A Pillar of "Make in India" in Defence</h2>The ERASR is a product of collaborative excellence, primarily developed by the&nbsp;Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE) in Pune, a key laboratory under the&nbsp;Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). The project also received invaluable technical expertise and support from the High Energy Materials Research Laboratory and the Naval Science and Technological Laboratory.One of ERASR's most significant advantages is its inherent compatibility with the&nbsp;Indigenous Rocket Launcher (IRL) system&nbsp;already deployed on Indian Navy ships. This "fit-and-forget" design means the Navy avoids the need for expensive new platforms or extensive modifications to its existing warships, making the upgrade process both rapid and highly cost-effective.Crucially, the entire production of ERASR will also be undertaken within India, significantly strengthening the government's flagship 'Make in India' initiative.&nbsp;Bharat Dynamics Limited in Hyderabad&nbsp;and&nbsp;Solar Defence and Aerospace Limited in Nagpur&nbsp;have been selected as the dedicated production partners. This strategic move not only drastically reduces India's reliance on foreign defence equipment but also fosters domestic job creation and bolsters local industries, demonstrating India's capability to design, develop, and manufacture advanced weapons systems entirely with its own resources and talent.Defence Minister Rajnath Singh lauded the concerted efforts of the DRDO, the Indian Navy, and the industry partners involved in the ERASR's development and testing. He underscored that the induction of this new system will provide a substantial boost to the Navy's anti-submarine warfare capabilities and powerfully demonstrate the government's unwavering commitment to nurturing homegrown defence capabilities. The Defence Ministry affirmed that this achievement represents a major milestone in India's long-term aspiration of becoming fully self-reliant in defence production. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-navys-ins-tarkash-seizes-over-2500-kg-of-narcotics-8919733/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-navys-ins-tarkash-seizes-over-2500-kg-of-narcotics-8919733/embed</a>&nbsp;The Indian Ocean region, a critical artery for global trade, is experiencing increasing submarine activity. Protecting India's vast 7,500-kilometre coastline and vital maritime trade routes is paramount. The ERASR equips the Indian Navy with the proactive tools necessary to counter evolving underwater threats effectively and assert control over crucial sea lanes. It is a timely and indispensable addition to India's defence arsenal. More than just a potent weapon, ERASR stands as a beacon of what Indian scientists, engineers, and industries can achieve when united in purpose. It symbolises India's surging confidence in building high-end military technology and signals to the world that India is resolutely prepared to protect its interests with strength, innovation, and unwavering self-reliance.

This powerful, fully indigenous weapon system is poised to transform the Indian Navy's capabilities, acting as a formidable "underwater guardian" that can detect and neutralise hidden submarine threats 

A new era in naval defence has dawned for India with the successful development and user trials of the Extended Range Anti-Submarine Rocket (ERASR). This powerful, fully indigenous weapon system is poised to transform the Indian Navy's capabilities, acting as a formidable "underwater guardian" that can detect and neutralise hidden submarine threats from significantly greater distances. Its induction marks a pivotal moment in India's journey towards true self-reliance in cutting-edge defence technology. As the global maritime landscape becomes increasingly complex, with advanced submarines operating with enhanced stealth and sophistication, the ERASR offers India a crucial strategic advantage. It empowers the Indian Navy to maintain a vigilant watch over vast oceanic regions, safeguarding its extensive coastline and vital national interests in the Indian Ocean. Beyond the Horizon: Extending India's Reach Below the Waves Previously, the Indian Navy's anti-submarine rockets had a limited engagement range of up to 5.3 kilometres. While effective for close-range combat, this offered minimal reaction time against faster, more elusive underwater adversaries. The ERASR dramatically expands this strike envelope to approximately 8.5 km – an impressive increase of nearly 60%. This extended reach means the Navy can now identify and neutralise threats much earlier, and from a safer standoff distance, significantly bolstering its defensive and offensive capabilities. The technological advancements embedded in ERASR are a testament to India's engineering prowess. Unlike older systems that relied on a single-stage motor, ERASR incorporates a two-stage solid propulsion system. This innovative design enables the rocket to efficiently cover both short and long distances with remarkable accuracy. Further enhancing its precision is a specialised, indigenously developed Electronic Time Fuze, engineered to ensure the warhead detonates at the optimal moment, maximising the chances of destroying the target. Between June 23 and July 7, 2025, the Indian Navy conducted a comprehensive series of user trials for the ERASR system from its advanced warship, INS Kavaratti. A total of 17 rockets were test-fired under authentic sea conditions, with each performing flawlessly. These rigorous trials meticulously evaluated the rocket's maximum range performance, the flawless operation of its electronic fuze, and the warhead's precise targeting accuracy. The resounding success of these trials, officially announced by the Press Information Bureau on the evening of July 8, confirms ERASR's readiness for immediate induction into regular Navy service. A Pillar of "Make in India" in Defence The ERASR is a product of collaborative excellence, primarily developed by the Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE) in Pune, a key laboratory under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). The project also received invaluable technical expertise and support from the High Energy Materials Research Laboratory and the Naval Science and Technological Laboratory. One of ERASR's most significant advantages is its inherent compatibility with the Indigenous Rocket Launcher (IRL) system already deployed on Indian Navy ships. This "fit-and-forget" design means the Navy avoids the need for expensive new platforms or extensive modifications to its existing warships, making the upgrade process both rapid and highly cost-effective. Crucially, the entire production of ERASR will also be undertaken within India, significantly strengthening the government's flagship 'Make in India' initiative. Bharat Dynamics Limited in Hyderabad and Solar Defence and Aerospace Limited in Nagpur have been selected as the dedicated production partners. This strategic move not only drastically reduces India's reliance on foreign defence equipment but also fosters domestic job creation and bolsters local industries, demonstrating India's capability to design, develop, and manufacture advanced weapons systems entirely with its own resources and talent. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh lauded the concerted efforts of the DRDO, the Indian Navy, and the industry partners involved in the ERASR's development and testing. He underscored that the induction of this new system will provide a substantial boost to the Navy's anti-submarine warfare capabilities and powerfully demonstrate the government's unwavering commitment to nurturing homegrown defence capabilities. The Defence Ministry affirmed that this achievement represents a major milestone in India's long-term aspiration of becoming fully self-reliant in defence production. https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-navys-ins-tarkash-seizes-over-2500-kg-of-narcotics-8919733/embed The Indian Ocean region, a critical artery for global trade, is experiencing increasing submarine activity. Protecting India's vast 7,500-kilometre coastline and vital maritime trade routes is paramount. The ERASR equips the Indian Navy with the proactive tools necessary to counter evolving underwater threats effectively and assert control over crucial sea lanes. It is a timely and indispensable addition to India's defence arsenal. More than just a potent weapon, ERASR stands as a beacon of what Indian scientists, engineers, and industries can achieve when united in purpose. It symbolises India's surging confidence in building high-end military technology and signals to the world that India is resolutely prepared to protect its interests with strength, innovation, and unwavering self-reliance.

This powerful, fully indigenous weapon system is poised to transform the Indian Navy's capabilities, acting as a formidable "underwater guardian" that can detect and neutralise hidden submarine threats&nbsp;

The Silent Guardian: ERASR Extends India's Reach Below the Surface

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday congratulated the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the Indian Navy, and the associated industry partners for developing and successfully testing&nbsp;the Extended Range Anti-Submarine Rocket (ERASR), the&nbsp;made-in-India anti-submarine rocket. It was tested from INA&nbsp;Kavaratti, displaying&nbsp;India's growing naval defence capabilities. The feat came a day after Singh stressed that the&nbsp;demand for Indian defence equipment had increased following Operation Sindoor.&nbsp;"The world is looking towards our Defence sector. The valour that our soldiers have shown during Operation Sindoor, as well as the way we showcased the capabilities of our domestic equipment, has led to an increase in demand for our indigenous defence products. World military expenditure has increased to over USD 2.7 trillion in 2024 - such a big market is awaiting us," Singh said.<h2>What is ERASR?</h2><ol><li>According to a government statement,&nbsp;Extended Range Anti-Submarine Rockets (ERASR) tests were successfully carried out from INS Kavaratti from June 23 to July 07, 2025.&nbsp;</li><li>The system was designed by DRDO’s Armament Research &amp; Development Establishment (ARDE), Pune, in association with the High Energy Materials Research Laboratory and Naval Science &amp; Technological Laboratory.</li><li>It was designed for the indigenous rocket launcher (IRL) of Indian naval ships. It was completely built in India. It is an anti-submarine rocket which can combat submarines. It is fired from the onboard IRLs of naval ships.&nbsp;</li><li>The government's statement said that the ERASR&nbsp;uses an indigenously developed Electronic Time Fuze. It boasts a twin-rocket motor, which can attack in several ranges with accuracy and consistency. 17 such rockets were tested and evaluated at different ranges.&nbsp;</li><li>"All the specified objectives of the trials, such as Range performance, Electronic Time Fuze functioning and Warhead functioning, were successfully demonstrated," the statement added. Bharat Dynamics Limited, Hyderabad and Solar Defence &amp; Aerospace Limited, Nagpur, will produce the rockets. It will be inducted into the Indian Navy soon, the statement added.</li></ol>

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday congratulated the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the Indian Navy, and the associated industry partners for developing and successfully testing the Extended Range Anti-Submarine Rocket (ERASR), the made-in-India anti-submarine rocket. 

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday congratulated the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the Indian Navy, and the associated industry partners for developing and successfully testing the Extended Range Anti-Submarine Rocket (ERASR), the made-in-India anti-submarine rocket. It was tested from INA Kavaratti, displaying India's growing naval defence capabilities. The feat came a day after Singh stressed that the demand for Indian defence equipment had increased following Operation Sindoor. "The world is looking towards our Defence sector. The valour that our soldiers have shown during Operation Sindoor, as well as the way we showcased the capabilities of our domestic equipment, has led to an increase in demand for our indigenous defence products. World military expenditure has increased to over USD 2.7 trillion in 2024 - such a big market is awaiting us," Singh said. What is ERASR? According to a government statement, Extended Range Anti-Submarine Rockets (ERASR) tests were successfully carried out from INS Kavaratti from June 23 to July 07, 2025. The system was designed by DRDO’s Armament Research & Development Establishment (ARDE), Pune, in association with the High Energy Materials Research Laboratory and Naval Science & Technological Laboratory. It was designed for the indigenous rocket launcher (IRL) of Indian naval ships. It was completely built in India. It is an anti-submarine rocket which can combat submarines. It is fired from the onboard IRLs of naval ships. The government's statement said that the ERASR uses an indigenously developed Electronic Time Fuze. It boasts a twin-rocket motor, which can attack in several ranges with accuracy and consistency. 17 such rockets were tested and evaluated at different ranges. "All the specified objectives of the trials, such as Range performance, Electronic Time Fuze functioning and Warhead functioning, were successfully demonstrated," the statement added. Bharat Dynamics Limited, Hyderabad and Solar Defence & Aerospace Limited, Nagpur, will produce the rockets. It will be inducted into the Indian Navy soon, the statement added.

ERASR: Bharat Dynamics Limited, Hyderabad and Solar Defence &amp; Aerospace Limited, Nagpur, will produce the rockets.&nbsp;

What is ERASR? 5 points on the Indian Navy's new anti-submarine weapon

Before aircraft carriers rose to dominance, battleships ruled the seas, and their scale and capability pushed the limits of naval engineering.

Before aircraft carriers rose to dominance, battleships ruled the seas, and their scale and capability pushed the limits of naval engineering.

What were the top 7 most powerful battleships in naval history? Take a look.

Indian Navy's frontline stealth frigate INS Tabar on Monday (Jun 30) was made part of a firefighting operation in the Gulf of Oman, following a distress call from the Palau-flagged tanker vessel MT Yi Cheng 6. Sailing from Kandla in India's Gujarat to Shinas, Oman, the vessel carrying 14 Indian crew reportedly experienced a major fire in the engine room and total power failure.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianNavy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianNavy</a>&#39;s stealth frigate<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INSTabar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INSTabar</a>, mission deployed in the Gulf of Oman, responded to a distress call from Pulau flagged MT Yi Cheng 6, on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/29Jun?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#29Jun</a> 25. The vessel with 14 crew members of Indian origin, transiting from Kandla, India to Shinas, Oman, experienced a major fire… <a href="https://t.co/hcwCalBW96">pic.twitter.com/hcwCalBW96</a>&mdash; SpokespersonNavy (@indiannavy) <a href="https://twitter.com/indiannavy/status/1939533699722396000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 30, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Responding to the distress call, INS Tabar reached the scene and deployed its firefighting team and equipment, which were transferred onboard the distressed vessel using a boat and a helicopter."13 Indian naval personnel and 5 crew members of the stricken tanker are currently involved in firefighting operations, with the intensity of fire onboard reduced drastically," said the Indian Navy.&nbsp;<h2>How the Indian Navy and Coast Guard aid distressed Mariners&nbsp;</h2>In India's Exclusive Economic Zone of over 2.1 million square kilometres and the larger Indian search and rescue region of over 4.5 million square kilometres, the Indian Coast Guard deploys its ships and aircraft for routine surveillance. During times of distress, the assets are diverted to the scene to render assistance. From ship fires to capsized fishing boats to medical evacuations from ships to combating pollution at sea, the ICG carries out a wide range of tasks.&nbsp;Though a war-fighting maritime force, the Indian naval assets also render assistance to distressed Mariners in the Indian Exclusive Economic Zone and Search and Rescue region, depending on the proximity of assets and their requirement.&nbsp;Further, given that the Indian Navy deploys its assets far from Indian shores and well into the larger Indian Ocean region, the naval assets render assistance to distressed mariners in international waters as well. Projecting India's maritime might and safeguarding India's maritime interests, the Navy undertakes anti-piracy operations and monitors and protects vital sea lanes.&nbsp;

Responding to the distress call, INS Tabar reached the scene and deployed its onboard boat and helicopter, transferring firefighting crew and equipment. 

Indian Navy's frontline stealth frigate INS Tabar on Monday (Jun 30) was made part of a firefighting operation in the Gulf of Oman, following a distress call from the Palau-flagged tanker vessel MT Yi Cheng 6. Sailing from Kandla in India's Gujarat to Shinas, Oman, the vessel carrying 14 Indian crew reportedly experienced a major fire in the engine room and total power failure.

Responding to the distress call, INS Tabar reached the scene and deployed its onboard boat and helicopter, transferring firefighting crew and equipment.&nbsp;

Indian Navy's warship INS Tabar aids ablaze tanker in Gulf Of Oman

An Indian Navy clerk who was stationed at the naval headquarters in Delhi has been taken into custody in Jaipur on charges of leaking a series of defence secrets to a Pakistani handler, including information on Operation Sindoor, in exchange for $600 (₹50,000). "Yadav admitted that he was paid around ₹2 lakh in total for the information he shared. This also included ₹50,000 for leaking information regarding Operation Sindoor," the inspector general of police (CID-security) Vishnu Kant Gupta said, adding some of the payments were made via cryptocurrency.&nbsp;Citing intelligence sources, PTI also reported that the trail of espionage started on Facebook, where the Pakistani handler with the pseudonym "Priya Sharma" sent a friend request to Yadav. Their exchange soon became regular and subsequently moved to WhatsApp, before finally switching to Telegram, a messaging application known for its encryption. Police said that Yadav initially got paid in small amounts, between ₹5,000 and ₹6,000, for lower-grade information. But as the handler coerced him to supply more sensitive material, he started sending classified defence information for higher payments. “He was lured by money and ended up leaking sensitive information from the Navy headquarters,” Gupta said. “After monitoring his social media activity and confirming his links with a Pakistani handler, he was detained in Jaipur for joint interrogation involving multiple national agencies,” the IGP added.<h2>Who is Vishal Yadav?</h2>Yadav, as per reports, is a resident of the North Indian state of Haryana and was employed as a clerk at the Delhi-based naval headquarters. He stands accused of spying on India and passing on sensitive information about the Indian naval forces and other defence units to a female handler in Pakistan, in exchange for money. He is believed to have done this for years, including the recent Operation Sindoor, which followed the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam in April.&nbsp;He was arrested following surveillance. Data recovered from his cellphone reportedly includes classified military documents and communications, which were shared with a foreign agent. Citing senior police officer Vishnukant Gupta, NDTV reported that the CID intelligence united has been closely keeping a track on espionage activities linked to Pakistani agencies. Officials during surveillance found that Yadav was in regular contact with a Pakistani handler posing as 'Priya Sharma' on social media. She allegedly transferred payments in exchange for restricted defence-related intelligence. Investigators found that the spy, Yadav, had an online gambling addiction and had been motivated by financial desperation, primarily driven by gambling losses.

Price of honesty: Honey-trapped by ‘Priya’, Navy staffer leaked secrets to Pakistan for less than $600

An Indian Navy clerk who was stationed at the naval headquarters in Delhi has been taken into custody in Jaipur on charges of leaking a series of defence secrets to a Pakistani handler, including information on Operation Sindoor, in exchange for $600 (₹50,000). "Yadav admitted that he was paid around ₹2 lakh in total for the information he shared. This also included ₹50,000 for leaking information regarding Operation Sindoor," the inspector general of police (CID-security) Vishnu Kant Gupta said, adding some of the payments were made via cryptocurrency. Citing intelligence sources, PTI also reported that the trail of espionage started on Facebook, where the Pakistani handler with the pseudonym "Priya Sharma" sent a friend request to Yadav. Their exchange soon became regular and subsequently moved to WhatsApp, before finally switching to Telegram, a messaging application known for its encryption. Police said that Yadav initially got paid in small amounts, between ₹5,000 and ₹6,000, for lower-grade information. But as the handler coerced him to supply more sensitive material, he started sending classified defence information for higher payments. “He was lured by money and ended up leaking sensitive information from the Navy headquarters,” Gupta said. “After monitoring his social media activity and confirming his links with a Pakistani handler, he was detained in Jaipur for joint interrogation involving multiple national agencies,” the IGP added. Who is Vishal Yadav? Yadav, as per reports, is a resident of the North Indian state of Haryana and was employed as a clerk at the Delhi-based naval headquarters. He stands accused of spying on India and passing on sensitive information about the Indian naval forces and other defence units to a female handler in Pakistan, in exchange for money. He is believed to have done this for years, including the recent Operation Sindoor, which followed the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam in April. He was arrested following surveillance. Data recovered from his cellphone reportedly includes classified military documents and communications, which were shared with a foreign agent. Citing senior police officer Vishnukant Gupta, NDTV reported that the CID intelligence united has been closely keeping a track on espionage activities linked to Pakistani agencies. Officials during surveillance found that Yadav was in regular contact with a Pakistani handler posing as 'Priya Sharma' on social media. She allegedly transferred payments in exchange for restricted defence-related intelligence. Investigators found that the spy, Yadav, had an online gambling addiction and had been motivated by financial desperation, primarily driven by gambling losses.

Yadav was arrested following surveillance. Data recovered from his cellphone reportedly includes classified military documents and communications, which were shared with a foreign agent

On Wednesday (June 18), INS Arnala, the first of the Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft, was commissioned into the Eastern Naval Command of the Indian Navy.

On Wednesday (June 18), INS Arnala, the first of the Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft, was commissioned into the Eastern Naval Command of the Indian Navy.

INS Arnala: 1st-of-its-kind naval warship commissioned - In Pics

Eighteen Indian Navy officers, including one woman, graduated as pilots from the Helicopter Training School at INS Rajali, near Chennai, on Monday, 9th June. Their Passing Out Parade marked the successful completion of their 22-week-long intensive flying and ground training at the Indian Naval Air Squadron-561, the largest helicopter squadron of the Indian Navy. Among those passing out and earning their ceremonial golden wings was Sub Lieutenant Siddhi Hemant Dubey, the second woman helicopter pilot of the Indian Navy. The coveted ‘golden wings’ symbolises a naval pilot’s ultimate transition from training to frontline operational readiness.&nbsp;

&nbsp;During her training period at INS Rajali, speaking to WION’s Sidharth.M.P, Sub Lieutenant Siddhi Dubey said, “Being a pilot was a childhood dream... and being a pilot, doing something different led me to opt for aviation in the Indian Navy. I’m extremely fortunate to be part of Helicopter Training School, INS Rajali, which is the alma mater of all naval helicopter pilots.”&nbsp;Looking back at her father’s service in the Indian Air Force, Dubey said that she had grown up with aircraft all around her and flying was a long-held desire. Dubey’s father was a senior non-commissioned officer in the Air Force.&nbsp;The pilots who graduated from the Helicopter Training School will now be deployed at frontline units of the Indian Navy, undertaking vital roles in reconnaissance, surveillance, Search and Rescue, and anti-piracy operations. Notably, the Indian Navy operates a diverse fleet of European, Russian, American, and Indian-origin helicopters.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;Vice Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Naval Command was the Reviewing Officer of the parade. In his address, he emphasised that the new helicopter pilots have learned not just how to fly, but how to fly with purpose.&nbsp;&nbsp;He told the graduating pilots that they wear the wings of gold, not as decoration, but as proof of discipline, of focus, and of the relentless pursuit of excellence, adding that those wings are not a reward, but symbolise responsibility. The golden wings represent the Navy’s faith in them, and are a sign that they are now a part of a rich naval legacy, he stated.&nbsp;Vice Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar said Indian naval aviation has always stood for professionalism, precision, and pride. Whether it’s flying from the decks of the ships, or from the base to the shore, whether in support of operational missions, or participating in joint exercises with foreign navies or for search and rescue, or Humanitarian Aid and Disaster Relief, our aviation assets have made a commendable contribution in every mission or task, he said.&nbsp;The Indian Naval Air squadron 561(Helicopter Training School) is the alma mater of each and every helicopter pilot of the Indian Navy. Upholding its mission statement ‘On Time, Every Time,’ the helicopter training school has trained 866 Pilots from the Indian Navy, Indian Coast Guard and friendly foreign nations over the past five decades and continues to provide helicopter flying training of the highest standards.

The pilots who graduated from the Helicopter Training School will now be deployed at frontline units of the Indian Navy, undertaking vital roles in reconnaissance, surveillance, search and rescue, and anti-piracy operations.

Eighteen Indian Navy officers, including one woman, graduated as pilots from the Helicopter Training School at INS Rajali, near Chennai, on Monday, 9th June. Their Passing Out Parade marked the successful completion of their 22-week-long intensive flying and ground training at the Indian Naval Air Squadron-561, the largest helicopter squadron of the Indian Navy. Among those passing out and earning their ceremonial golden wings was Sub Lieutenant Siddhi Hemant Dubey, the second woman helicopter pilot of the Indian Navy. The coveted ‘golden wings’ symbolises a naval pilot’s ultimate transition from training to frontline operational readiness.

The pilots who graduated from the Helicopter Training School will now be deployed at frontline units of the Indian Navy, undertaking vital roles in reconnaissance, surveillance, search and rescue, and anti-piracy operations.

Indian Navy gets its 2nd woman chopper pilot—Sub Lt Siddhi Dubey

The warship, INS Arnala is the first of 16 ASW-SWC class ship being constructed under a Public-Private Partnership between the Garden Reach Shipbuilders  and Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata, and L and T Shipbuilders.

The warship, INS Arnala is the first of 16 ASW-SWC class ship being constructed under a Public-Private Partnership between the Garden Reach Shipbuilders &amp; Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata, and L&amp;T Shipbuilders.

What is INS Arnala? 5 key facts about Indian navy’s first anti-submarine shallow water warship

Police in the southern Indian state of Kerala have taken a man into custody after he called the headquarters of the Navy&rsquo;s Southern Naval Command, posing as a Prime Minister&rsquo;s Office (PMO) official, and asked for details on the location of India&rsquo;s mission-deployed aircraft carrier INS Vikrant. This comes at a time when India&rsquo;s frontline assets, including the indigenous aircraft carrier Vikrant and its carrier battle group, are deployed as part of India&rsquo;s high-profile Operation Sindoor against Pakistan.&nbsp;
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-air-force-struck-missile-site-at-malir-cantt-near-pakistans-port-city-of-karachi-9061396">Indian Air Force struck missile site at Malir Cantt near Pakistan&rsquo;s port city of Karachi</a>
According to the Defence Public Relations Officer in Kochi, &ldquo;A suspicious call inquiring about Naval assets was received from a civil phone number at Naval Base, Kochi, on May 9th. The Navy&rsquo;s internal security mechanism promptly flagged the incident and brought it to the attention of the concerned intelligence agencies.&rdquo;&nbsp; Notably, this call seeking details on INS Vikrant was received at a time when India&rsquo;s offensive military operations against Pakistan were at their peak. As the leader of the carrier battle group, INS Vikrant never sails alone. The aircraft carrier is accompanied by a host of warships, including destroyers, frigates, submarines, and other combat support vessels.&nbsp; Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-downed-pakistani-mirage-jet-during-operation-sindoor-army-shares-proof-watch-9060787" target="_blank" rel="noopener">India downed Pakistani Mirage Jet during Operation Sindoor, Army shares proof | Watch</a>
Following the initial probe by the naval intelligence, an FIR was registered at the Harbour Police Station in Kochi. In connection with this incident, one Mujeeb Rahman, a Keralite hailing from Elathur in Kozhikode, has been taken into custody. There are claims that Mujeeb is mentally unstable and had been undergoing treatment.&nbsp; However, the timing of the incident and the call to the Southern Naval Command in Kochi raise serious questions.&nbsp; INS Vikrant was built at the Indian government&rsquo;s Cochin Shipyard Limited and formally commissioned (inducted) into the Indian Navy at Kochi. A detailed police investigation is underway. Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news-0/ten-satellites-continuously-operational-to-ensure-indias-safety-and-security-says-isro-chief-9059958" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Ten satellites continuously operational to ensure India's safety and security, says ISRO chief</a>
"The Indian Navy remains ever vigilant against subversive and espionage activities carried out by adversarial elements to obtain sensitive information. Maintaining a high level of preparedness, the Indian Navy is committed to the highest standards of operational security in the national interest," added Defence PRO Kochi.
&nbsp;

India News: As the leader of the carrier battle group, INS Vikrant never sails alone. The aircraft carrier is accompanied by a host of warships, including destroyers, frigates, submarines, and other combat support vessels.

Police in the southern Indian state of Kerala have taken a man into custody after he called the headquarters of the Navy’s Southern Naval Command, posing as a Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) official, and asked for details on the location of India’s mission-deployed aircraft carrier INS Vikrant. This comes at a time when India’s frontline assets, including the indigenous aircraft carrier Vikrant and its carrier battle group, are deployed as part of India’s high-profile Operation Sindoor against Pakistan. Also Read | Indian Air Force struck missile site at Malir Cantt near Pakistan’s port city of Karachi According to the Defence Public Relations Officer in Kochi, “A suspicious call inquiring about Naval assets was received from a civil phone number at Naval Base, Kochi, on May 9th. The Navy’s internal security mechanism promptly flagged the incident and brought it to the attention of the concerned intelligence agencies.” Notably, this call seeking details on INS Vikrant was received at a time when India’s offensive military operations against Pakistan were at their peak. As the leader of the carrier battle group, INS Vikrant never sails alone. The aircraft carrier is accompanied by a host of warships, including destroyers, frigates, submarines, and other combat support vessels. Also Read | India downed Pakistani Mirage Jet during Operation Sindoor, Army shares proof | Watch Following the initial probe by the naval intelligence, an FIR was registered at the Harbour Police Station in Kochi. In connection with this incident, one Mujeeb Rahman, a Keralite hailing from Elathur in Kozhikode, has been taken into custody. There are claims that Mujeeb is mentally unstable and had been undergoing treatment. However, the timing of the incident and the call to the Southern Naval Command in Kochi raise serious questions. INS Vikrant was built at the Indian government’s Cochin Shipyard Limited and formally commissioned (inducted) into the Indian Navy at Kochi. A detailed police investigation is underway. Also read | Ten satellites continuously operational to ensure India's safety and security, says ISRO chief "The Indian Navy remains ever vigilant against subversive and espionage activities carried out by adversarial elements to obtain sensitive information. Maintaining a high level of preparedness, the Indian Navy is committed to the highest standards of operational security in the national interest," added Defence PRO Kochi.

Man from Kerala poses as PMO official, calls Navy for details on INS Vikrant; arrested

The Indian Navy was in full readiness and capable of striking anywhere on land or sea, including Karachi, when India launched Operation Sindoor against Pakistan, Vice Admiral AN Pramod said on Sunday during a joint media briefing of all three forces on Operation Sindoor. &ldquo;Our forces remained forward deployed in the Arabian Sea in a decisive posture with full readiness and capacity to strike select targets at sea and on land, including Karachi, at the time of our choosing,&rdquo; Vice Admiral Pramod said.
The Navy&rsquo;s deployment virtually forced the Pakistani ships to stay put in the harbour or near the coast, the Vice Admiral said, revealing the role played by the naval forces. The Navy&rsquo;s carrier battle groups, surface forces, submarines, and aviation assets were deployed with full combat readiness shortly after the Pahalgam attack.
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/our-adversary-was-rattled-by-operation-sindoor-targeted-civilians-in-erratic-response-dgmo-9058253">&lsquo;Our adversary was rattled by Operation Sindoor, targeted civilians in erratic response&rsquo;: DGMO</a>
The Navy conducted live-firing drills, launch tests, and combat operational drills in the Arabian Sea after the Pahalgam attack once the government vowed &ldquo;unimaginable punishment&rdquo; to the perpetrators.
&ldquo;We tested and refined tactics and procedures at sea during multiple weapon firings in the Arabian Sea within 96 hours of the terrorist attack. The aim was to revalidate our crew, armaments, equipment, and platform readiness to deliver various ordnance on selected targets precisely,&rdquo; he said.
Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-pak-ceasefire-we-definitely-have-downed-some-of-their-planes-air-marshal-ak-bharti-9058142" target="_blank" rel="noopener">India-Pak ceasefire | We definitely have downed some of their planes: Air Marshal AK Bharti</a>
&ldquo;The Indian Navy maintained seamless maritime domain awareness throughout and was entirely aware of the locations and movement of Pakistani units,&rdquo; he added.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-majvvnv0-m4bn1zrf-b3km0zwi">
"...Our forces remained forward deployed in the Northern Arabian Sea in a decisive nd deterrent posture with full readiness and capacity to strike select targets at sea and on land, including Karachi, at a time of our choosing.." says Vice Admiral AN Pramod (Source: ANI) <a href="https://t.co/OnbKRlCMIA">pic.twitter.com/OnbKRlCMIA</a>
&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1921570552147276237?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 11, 2025</a></blockquote>
&ldquo;Along with the kinetic action by the Indian Army and Indian Air Force, the overwhelming operational edge of Indian Navy at sea contributed towards Pakistan&rsquo;s urgent request for a ceasefire yesterday,&rdquo; he said. Vice Admiral Pramod, the Director General of Naval Operations, said that the Navy remains alert and ready to &ldquo;respond decisively to any inimical action by Pakistan or Pakistan-based terrorists&rdquo;.
Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-lost-five-soldiers-in-operation-sindoor-ceasefire-violations-indian-armed-forces-dgmo-india-pakistan-9058131" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'We lost five soldiers in Operation Sindoor, ceasefire violations': Indian Armed Forces pay tribute to bravehearts in DGMO briefing</a> India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7 and struck the terror hideouts in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (POK) in retaliation to the April 22 Pahalgam attack, which claimed the lives of 26 civilians. The Army and the Air Force launched precision strikes and destroyed large swathes of terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan, as the Navy remained on standby.

India News | Pakistan: The Navy conducted live-firing drills, launch tests, and combat operational drills in the Arabian Sea after the Pahalgam attack once the government vowed “unimaginable punishment” to the perpetrators.

The Indian Navy was in full readiness and capable of striking anywhere on land or sea, including Karachi, when India launched Operation Sindoor against Pakistan, Vice Admiral AN Pramod said on Sunday during a joint media briefing of all three forces on Operation Sindoor. “Our forces remained forward deployed in the Arabian Sea in a decisive posture with full readiness and capacity to strike select targets at sea and on land, including Karachi, at the time of our choosing,” Vice Admiral Pramod said. The Navy’s deployment virtually forced the Pakistani ships to stay put in the harbour or near the coast, the Vice Admiral said, revealing the role played by the naval forces. The Navy’s carrier battle groups, surface forces, submarines, and aviation assets were deployed with full combat readiness shortly after the Pahalgam attack. Also Read | ‘Our adversary was rattled by Operation Sindoor, targeted civilians in erratic response’: DGMO The Navy conducted live-firing drills, launch tests, and combat operational drills in the Arabian Sea after the Pahalgam attack once the government vowed “unimaginable punishment” to the perpetrators. “We tested and refined tactics and procedures at sea during multiple weapon firings in the Arabian Sea within 96 hours of the terrorist attack. The aim was to revalidate our crew, armaments, equipment, and platform readiness to deliver various ordnance on selected targets precisely,” he said. Also Read | India-Pak ceasefire | We definitely have downed some of their planes: Air Marshal AK Bharti “The Indian Navy maintained seamless maritime domain awareness throughout and was entirely aware of the locations and movement of Pakistani units,” he added. "...Our forces remained forward deployed in the Northern Arabian Sea in a decisive nd deterrent posture with full readiness and capacity to strike select targets at sea and on land, including Karachi, at a time of our choosing.." says Vice Admiral AN Pramod (Source: ANI) pic.twitter.com/OnbKRlCMIA — WION (@WIONews) May 11, 2025 “Along with the kinetic action by the Indian Army and Indian Air Force, the overwhelming operational edge of Indian Navy at sea contributed towards Pakistan’s urgent request for a ceasefire yesterday,” he said. Vice Admiral Pramod, the Director General of Naval Operations, said that the Navy remains alert and ready to “respond decisively to any inimical action by Pakistan or Pakistan-based terrorists”. Also Read | 'We lost five soldiers in Operation Sindoor, ceasefire violations': Indian Armed Forces pay tribute to bravehearts in DGMO briefing India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7 and struck the terror hideouts in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (POK) in retaliation to the April 22 Pahalgam attack, which claimed the lives of 26 civilians. The Army and the Air Force launched precision strikes and destroyed large swathes of terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan, as the Navy remained on standby.

Indian Navy was all set to hit Karachi, kept Pakistani ships bound to harbour

INS Tamal is the sister ship of INS Tushil, which was delivered in December 2024. Both the vessels are part of a 2016 India-Russia defence agreement involving four frigates

Meet INS Tamal: A Russian-built stealth frigate equipped with India's BrahMos missile! Know its features, firepower and capabilities

India will acquire 26 Rafale-Marine jets from France, including weapons and support, to boost Navy capabilities on INS Vikrant.

Indian Navy to get 26 Rafale-Marine fighters, France to supply weapons with aircraft

The Indian Navy on Sunday (Apr 27) successfully conducted multiple anti-ship missile firings in the Arabian Sea, demonstrating its long-range precision offensive strike capabilities.&nbsp;
In an X post, the Indian Navy said, &ldquo;Indian Navy Ships undertook successful multiple anti-ship firings to revalidate and demonstrate readiness of platforms, systems and crew for long range precision offensive strike.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/jk-terror-attack-do-not-be-fooled-this-fake-list-of-pahalgam-terror-attack-victims-is-a-lie-pib-issues-fact-check-9007292">Do not be fooled! This list of Pahalgam terror attack victims is FAKE | Fact check</a>
The Indian Navy shared a video of BrahMos anti-ship and anti-surface cruise missiles being launched from a fleet of warships, showcasing the Navy&rsquo;s readiness and operational prowess.
&ldquo;Indian Navy stands #CombatReady #Credible and #FutureReady in safeguarding the nation&rsquo;s maritime interests Anytime Anywhere Anyhow,&rdquo; it added.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m9zk28xz-jz7h3fwf-vyhpa3vo">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianNavy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianNavy</a> Ships undertook successful multiple anti-ship firings to revalidate and demonstrate readiness of platforms, systems and crew for long range precision offensive strike.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianNavy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianNavy</a> stands <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CombatReady?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CombatReady</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Credible?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Credible</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FutureReady?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FutureReady</a> in safeguarding the nation&rsquo;s maritime&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/NWwSITBzKK">pic.twitter.com/NWwSITBzKK</a>
&mdash; SpokespersonNavy (@indiannavy) <a href="https://twitter.com/indiannavy/status/1916347554197066061?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 27, 2025</a></blockquote>
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/kevin-hart-cancels-indian-leg-of-his-acting-my-age-tour-after-pahalgam-terrorist-attack-9007082">Kevin Hart cancels Indian leg of his 'Acting My Age' tour after Pahalgam terrorist attack</a>
Earlier on Thursday (Apr 24), the Navy&rsquo;s indigenous guided missile destroyer, INS Surat, successfully test-fired the Medium-Range Surface-to-Air Missile (MR-SAM) system.
The MR-SAM system, which was developed jointly with Israel, is effective against both surface-to-surface missiles and aerial threats. It has an interception range of around 70 kilometres.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pahalgam-attack-reminder-of-fbi-director-kash-patel-assures-us-full-support-to-india-9006974">Pahalgam attack &lsquo;reminder of...', FBI director Kash Patel assures US' 'full support' to India</a>
&ldquo;Indian Navy's latest indigenous guided missile destroyer INS Surat successfully carried out a precision cooperative engagement of a sea skimming target marking another milestone in strengthening our defence capabilities.,&rdquo; the Navy posted on X.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m9zk2jo3-nscv3k7w-bl7mvbf0">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianNavy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianNavy</a>'s latest indigenous guided missile destroyer <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INSSurat?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INSSurat</a> successfully carried out a precision cooperative engagement of a sea skimming target marking another milestone in strengthening our defence capabilities. Proud moment for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AatmaNirbharBharat?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AatmaNirbharBharat</a>!<a href="https://twitter.com/SpokespersonMoD?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SpokespersonMoD</a>&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/hhgJbWMw98">pic.twitter.com/hhgJbWMw98</a>
&mdash; SpokespersonNavy (@indiannavy) <a href="https://twitter.com/indiannavy/status/1915323039321059393?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2>Indian Army demonstrates preparedness</h2>
In a video on X, the Indian Army also demonstrated its operational readiness. &ldquo;Always Prepared, Ever Vigilant - Indian Army,&rdquo; it said.
The successful drills and display of India&rsquo;s defence forces come amid the escalating tensions between India and Pakistan following the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/pahalgam-terror-attack" rel="dofollow">Pahalgam terror attack</a>.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m9zk2sf0-u0z7rybz-ui2of52a">
Always Prepared, Ever Vigilant - <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianArmy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianArmy</a> <a href="https://t.co/NIHWvWF9oM">pic.twitter.com/NIHWvWF9oM</a>
&mdash; ADG PI - INDIAN ARMY (@adgpi) <a href="https://twitter.com/adgpi/status/1916006767403655533?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 26, 2025</a></blockquote>
Watch | Pahalgam terror attack: Home minister asks Delhi police commissioner to beef up security
<iframe width="600" height="auto" style="width: 100%; aspect-ratio: 4/3;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="external-video publive-iframes-block" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/screenshot/2704_ARJUN_JK_2PM/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/2704_ARJUN_JK_2PM.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=507&amp;tags=Pahalgam Terror Attack, World News, WION" title="Pahalgam terror attack: Home minister asks Delhi police commissioner to beef up security" id="PL_iframe_block-m9zjuomv-or7qj071-1yamqqaf"></iframe>
Earlier, Pakistan issued a notification announcing upcoming missile firings in the Arabian Sea region.
On Tuesday afternoon (Apr 22), at least 27 people, mainly tourists, were gunned down by terrorists in Baisaran Valley of Pahalgam in a horrific terror attack. The region is a popular tourist spot and is located in the Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir.

Earlier on Thursday (Apr 24), the Navy’s indigenous guided missile destroyer, INS Surat, successfully test-fired the Medium-Range Surface-to-Air Missile (MR-SAM) system. India news

The Indian Navy on Sunday (Apr 27) successfully conducted multiple anti-ship missile firings in the Arabian Sea, demonstrating its long-range precision offensive strike capabilities. In an X post, the Indian Navy said, “Indian Navy Ships undertook successful multiple anti-ship firings to revalidate and demonstrate readiness of platforms, systems and crew for long range precision offensive strike. Also read | Do not be fooled! This list of Pahalgam terror attack victims is FAKE | Fact check The Indian Navy shared a video of BrahMos anti-ship and anti-surface cruise missiles being launched from a fleet of warships, showcasing the Navy’s readiness and operational prowess. “Indian Navy stands #CombatReady #Credible and #FutureReady in safeguarding the nation’s maritime interests Anytime Anywhere Anyhow,” it added. #IndianNavy Ships undertook successful multiple anti-ship firings to revalidate and demonstrate readiness of platforms, systems and crew for long range precision offensive strike.#IndianNavy stands #CombatReady #Credible and #FutureReady in safeguarding the nation’s maritime… pic.twitter.com/NWwSITBzKK — SpokespersonNavy (@indiannavy) April 27, 2025 Also read | Kevin Hart cancels Indian leg of his 'Acting My Age' tour after Pahalgam terrorist attack Earlier on Thursday (Apr 24), the Navy’s indigenous guided missile destroyer, INS Surat, successfully test-fired the Medium-Range Surface-to-Air Missile (MR-SAM) system. The MR-SAM system, which was developed jointly with Israel, is effective against both surface-to-surface missiles and aerial threats. It has an interception range of around 70 kilometres. Also read | Pahalgam attack ‘reminder of...', FBI director Kash Patel assures US' 'full support' to India “Indian Navy's latest indigenous guided missile destroyer INS Surat successfully carried out a precision cooperative engagement of a sea skimming target marking another milestone in strengthening our defence capabilities.,” the Navy posted on X. #IndianNavy's latest indigenous guided missile destroyer #INSSurat successfully carried out a precision cooperative engagement of a sea skimming target marking another milestone in strengthening our defence capabilities. Proud moment for #AatmaNirbharBharat!@SpokespersonMoD… pic.twitter.com/hhgJbWMw98 — SpokespersonNavy (@indiannavy) April 24, 2025 Indian Army demonstrates preparedness In a video on X, the Indian Army also demonstrated its operational readiness. “Always Prepared, Ever Vigilant - Indian Army,” it said. The successful drills and display of India’s defence forces come amid the escalating tensions between India and Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack. Always Prepared, Ever Vigilant - #IndianArmy pic.twitter.com/NIHWvWF9oM — ADG PI - INDIAN ARMY (@adgpi) April 26, 2025 Watch | Pahalgam terror attack: Home minister asks Delhi police commissioner to beef up security Earlier, Pakistan issued a notification announcing upcoming missile firings in the Arabian Sea region. On Tuesday afternoon (Apr 22), at least 27 people, mainly tourists, were gunned down by terrorists in Baisaran Valley of Pahalgam in a horrific terror attack. The region is a popular tourist spot and is located in the Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir.

WATCH | Indian Navy showcases operational readiness for ‘offensive strike’ with successful missile test

As the Naval Commanders&rsquo; Conference 2025, held at Karwar, Karnataka, and New Delhi, drew to a close, it became evident that India&rsquo;s naval diplomacy has matured into a cornerstone of national strategy. Not merely a theatre of defence readiness, the Indian Navy is now central to India&rsquo;s emergence as a regional anchor in the Indo-Pacific. This is a story not of muscularity, but of maritime mentorship &mdash; a quiet rise powered by credibility, compassion, and strategic coherence.
<h2>A Compass for the Indian Ocean Community</h2>
India&rsquo;s transition from SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) to MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security Across the Regions) reflects more than a semantic shift. It signals a recalibrated strategic and maritime outlook that positions India as a preferred security partner and responsible first responder, while reaffirming the Indian Ocean as a cooperative &mdash; not contested &mdash; zone.
<h2>Legacy of sea power in Indian thought</h2>
The relevance of maritime power in India&rsquo;s geopolitical posture is neither recent nor accidental. In the mid-20th century, historian and strategist KM Panikkar framed India&rsquo;s destiny through a maritime lens, asserting that &ldquo;the vital importance of sea power has been ignored in Indian political thought for too long.&rdquo; His concept of the Indian Ocean Strategic Arc envisioned the region not merely as a transit zone but as a space of civilisational convergence and strategic contest.
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/indian-army-accelerates-electronic-warfare-modernisation-with-sambhav-samyukta-himashakti-and-ai-8958693">Indian Army accelerates electronic warfare modernisation with SAMBHAV, Samyukta, Himashakti, and AI</a> Centuries earlier, the Chola naval expeditions in the Bay of Bengal reflected a confident assertion of mercantile outreach and strategic influence. Their reach extended as far as modern-day Indonesia and the Malay Peninsula, showcasing India&rsquo;s ancient maritime ambition and naval sophistication. Today, India&rsquo;s maritime strategy reclaims that legacy &mdash; combining history with contemporary relevance. This resurgence also parallels the intellectual resurgence of Panikkar&rsquo;s maritime realism, which is now echoed in India&rsquo;s strategic doctrines, particularly in recognising the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) as a decisive theatre in 21st-century geopolitics.
<h2>Infrastructure to influence: Karwar as the keystone</h2>
The Karwar leg of the 2025 Commanders&rsquo; Conference symbolised this maritime confidence. With nine new piers and key operational facilities commissioned under Project Seabird, Karwar has evolved from a base into a western seaboard fulcrum. The expanded infrastructure strengthens India&rsquo;s capacity for sea control, multi-mission deployments, and logistics sustainability in the Arabian Sea. The ceremonial flag-off of INS Sunayna as IOS SAGAR was not merely a gesture of visibility. As the vessel embarked with personnel from nine Friendly Foreign Nations (FFNs), it became a mobile institution of collaborative learning &mdash; a floating classroom, a diplomatic mission, and a symbol of maritime solidarity.
<h2>AIKEYME 2025: Unity in practice</h2>
At Dar es Salaam, INS Sunayna hosted Indian and African sailors during the inaugural AIKEYME 2025 exercise. Co-hosted with the Tanzanian Navy, the exercise included maritime domain awareness drills, joint EEZ surveillance, and coordinated sea operations. Its message was clear: unity without uniformity. AIKEYME builds upon the principles articulated in the Gandhinagar Declaration (2022), promoting practical maritime cooperation between India and Africa. In contrast to China&rsquo;s infrastructure-led maritime outreach, India&rsquo;s model emphasises co-ownership, skill-sharing, and operational interoperability. From hydrographic assistance to MDA tools, India offers maritime capacity-building rooted in trust, not transaction. As echoed in an African proverb quoted during the event: &ldquo;If you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together.&rdquo;
<h2>Operation Brahma: Strategic empathy as soft power</h2>
India&rsquo;s commitment as a maritime first responder was reaffirmed during Operation Brahma, launched in response to the devastating March 2025 earthquake in Myanmar and Thailand. Indian Navy ships delivered over 440 tonnes of relief supplies, including medical kits and sanitation equipment, showcasing the seamless synergy of humanitarian response and strategic outreach. From the 2004 Tsunami to the 2006 Yogyakarta earthquake and now to Yangon, India&rsquo;s naval HADR tradition is rooted in responsiveness without rhetoric, delivering impact with quiet resolve. This mode of humanitarian diplomacy reflects strategic empathy &mdash; a nuanced understanding that influence in the Indo-Pacific is better earned through presence and partnership than through prescription. It also aligns with India&rsquo;s Neighbourhood First policy and broader Indo-Pacific strategic frameworks like the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI).
<h2>Tiger Triumph: Indo-Pacific interoperability</h2>
In the Bay of Bengal, Tiger Triumph 2025 marked the fourth tri-service HADR-focussed exercise between India and the United States. From joint air drops to slithering ops and a Combined Coordination Centre at Kakinada, the exercise reinforced India&rsquo;s growing interoperability with key global partners. Unlike kinetic war-gaming drills, Tiger Triumph is framed around non-traditional security threats, particularly humanitarian disasters. This aligns with India&rsquo;s cooperative security model &mdash; one that enhances credibility, fosters trust, and diffuses regional anxieties. The exercise is also a signal of maritime readiness with restraint, a subtle yet potent hallmark of India&rsquo;s maturing naval posture.
<h2>Naval Commanders&rsquo; Conference: A strategic reset</h2>
The second phase of the conference in New Delhi broadened the strategic horizon. The unveiling of the Indian Navy Space Vision, Operational Data Framework, and the veterans&rsquo; compendium &ldquo;Navy for Life and Beyond&rdquo; reflects a force investing not just in platforms, but in ecosystem readiness. Digitalisation of operational workflows, leveraging space-based ISR (intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance), and expanded HR planning illustrate a Navy aligning itself with new domains of warfare and technological sovereignty. Engagements with CDS, Service Chiefs, the Foreign Secretary, and G20 Sherpa highlighted the convergence between maritime action and national strategy. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri emphasised the fluid geopolitical order, while Amitabh Kant recognised the Navy&rsquo;s role in economic security and global standing. This is relevant, especially in safeguarding trade corridors, energy routes, and undersea cables.
<h2>MAHASAGAR: The strategic horizon ahead</h2>
The path to MAHASAGAR is paved with cooperative intent and pragmatic planning. India&rsquo;s maritime future will hinge on institutionalised India-Africa naval dialogues and joint exercises with ASEAN, IOR, and BIMSTEC member states. Blue economy collaborations and eco-port development will be on the anvil, as will strategic maritime fellowship schemes for developing nation scholars. One would see an expanded role for the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS) as a dialogue-led maritime security platform.
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/why-india-must-act-now-the-escalating-security-risks-from-bangladesh-8957667">Why India Must Act Now? The Escalating Security Risks from Bangladesh</a>
BIMSTEC, often seen as an underleveraged framework, presents enormous potential for regional maritime synergy. With a shared bay, BIMSTEC nations can co-develop maritime domain awareness architecture, crisis response protocols, and marine biodiversity initiatives under a shared governance rubric. As John J. Mearsheimer noted during the Rising Bharat Summit 2024, India remains an &ldquo;aspiring great power&rdquo; with the moral legitimacy and democratic character to stabilise the Indo-Pacific. This admiration, echoed across strategic capitals, highlights the Navy&rsquo;s rising profile &mdash; welcomed with aspiration, not apprehension.
<h2>Building sinews to synergy</h2>
In a world where maritime zones are increasingly contested, India chooses connectivity over coercion. The Navy is the sinew of Indian foreign policy &mdash; linking vision to vessel, doctrine to diplomacy. From Karwar to Dar es Salaam, from Yangon to Kakinada, India&rsquo;s maritime presence is anchored in trust. Sea lines are becoming lifelines, transforming India from a continental power with maritime interests into a maritime power with continental depth. As the Indian Ocean reawakens in the Indo-Pacific, the Indian Navy is no longer just a sentinel. It is the strategic sculptor of a more inclusive, resilient, and synergistic seascape.
(Commodore (Dr.) Johnson Odakkal is a maritime scholar, strategic affairs analyst, and Indian Navy veteran. He serves as Faculty of Global Politics and Theory of Knowledge at Aditya Birla World Academy, Mumbai, and Adjunct Faculty of Maritime and Strategic Studies at Naval War College, Goa.)
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(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Opinions & Blogs | India News: In a world where maritime zones are increasingly contested, India chooses connectivity over coercion. The Navy is the sinew of Indian foreign policy — linking vision to vessel, doctrine to diplomacy.

As the Naval Commanders’ Conference 2025, held at Karwar, Karnataka, and New Delhi, drew to a close, it became evident that India’s naval diplomacy has matured into a cornerstone of national strategy. Not merely a theatre of defence readiness, the Indian Navy is now central to India’s emergence as a regional anchor in the Indo-Pacific. This is a story not of muscularity, but of maritime mentorship — a quiet rise powered by credibility, compassion, and strategic coherence. A Compass for the Indian Ocean Community India’s transition from SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) to MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security Across the Regions) reflects more than a semantic shift. It signals a recalibrated strategic and maritime outlook that positions India as a preferred security partner and responsible first responder, while reaffirming the Indian Ocean as a cooperative — not contested — zone. Legacy of sea power in Indian thought The relevance of maritime power in India’s geopolitical posture is neither recent nor accidental. In the mid-20th century, historian and strategist KM Panikkar framed India’s destiny through a maritime lens, asserting that “the vital importance of sea power has been ignored in Indian political thought for too long.” His concept of the Indian Ocean Strategic Arc envisioned the region not merely as a transit zone but as a space of civilisational convergence and strategic contest. Also Read | Indian Army accelerates electronic warfare modernisation with SAMBHAV, Samyukta, Himashakti, and AI Centuries earlier, the Chola naval expeditions in the Bay of Bengal reflected a confident assertion of mercantile outreach and strategic influence. Their reach extended as far as modern-day Indonesia and the Malay Peninsula, showcasing India’s ancient maritime ambition and naval sophistication. Today, India’s maritime strategy reclaims that legacy — combining history with contemporary relevance. This resurgence also parallels the intellectual resurgence of Panikkar’s maritime realism, which is now echoed in India’s strategic doctrines, particularly in recognising the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) as a decisive theatre in 21st-century geopolitics. Infrastructure to influence: Karwar as the keystone The Karwar leg of the 2025 Commanders’ Conference symbolised this maritime confidence. With nine new piers and key operational facilities commissioned under Project Seabird, Karwar has evolved from a base into a western seaboard fulcrum. The expanded infrastructure strengthens India’s capacity for sea control, multi-mission deployments, and logistics sustainability in the Arabian Sea. The ceremonial flag-off of INS Sunayna as IOS SAGAR was not merely a gesture of visibility. As the vessel embarked with personnel from nine Friendly Foreign Nations (FFNs), it became a mobile institution of collaborative learning — a floating classroom, a diplomatic mission, and a symbol of maritime solidarity. AIKEYME 2025: Unity in practice At Dar es Salaam, INS Sunayna hosted Indian and African sailors during the inaugural AIKEYME 2025 exercise. Co-hosted with the Tanzanian Navy, the exercise included maritime domain awareness drills, joint EEZ surveillance, and coordinated sea operations. Its message was clear: unity without uniformity. AIKEYME builds upon the principles articulated in the Gandhinagar Declaration (2022), promoting practical maritime cooperation between India and Africa. In contrast to China’s infrastructure-led maritime outreach, India’s model emphasises co-ownership, skill-sharing, and operational interoperability. From hydrographic assistance to MDA tools, India offers maritime capacity-building rooted in trust, not transaction. As echoed in an African proverb quoted during the event: “If you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together.” Operation Brahma: Strategic empathy as soft power India’s commitment as a maritime first responder was reaffirmed during Operation Brahma, launched in response to the devastating March 2025 earthquake in Myanmar and Thailand. Indian Navy ships delivered over 440 tonnes of relief supplies, including medical kits and sanitation equipment, showcasing the seamless synergy of humanitarian response and strategic outreach. From the 2004 Tsunami to the 2006 Yogyakarta earthquake and now to Yangon, India’s naval HADR tradition is rooted in responsiveness without rhetoric, delivering impact with quiet resolve. This mode of humanitarian diplomacy reflects strategic empathy — a nuanced understanding that influence in the Indo-Pacific is better earned through presence and partnership than through prescription. It also aligns with India’s Neighbourhood First policy and broader Indo-Pacific strategic frameworks like the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI). Tiger Triumph: Indo-Pacific interoperability In the Bay of Bengal, Tiger Triumph 2025 marked the fourth tri-service HADR-focussed exercise between India and the United States. From joint air drops to slithering ops and a Combined Coordination Centre at Kakinada, the exercise reinforced India’s growing interoperability with key global partners. Unlike kinetic war-gaming drills, Tiger Triumph is framed around non-traditional security threats, particularly humanitarian disasters. This aligns with India’s cooperative security model — one that enhances credibility, fosters trust, and diffuses regional anxieties. The exercise is also a signal of maritime readiness with restraint, a subtle yet potent hallmark of India’s maturing naval posture. Naval Commanders’ Conference: A strategic reset The second phase of the conference in New Delhi broadened the strategic horizon. The unveiling of the Indian Navy Space Vision, Operational Data Framework, and the veterans’ compendium “Navy for Life and Beyond” reflects a force investing not just in platforms, but in ecosystem readiness. Digitalisation of operational workflows, leveraging space-based ISR (intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance), and expanded HR planning illustrate a Navy aligning itself with new domains of warfare and technological sovereignty. Engagements with CDS, Service Chiefs, the Foreign Secretary, and G20 Sherpa highlighted the convergence between maritime action and national strategy. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri emphasised the fluid geopolitical order, while Amitabh Kant recognised the Navy’s role in economic security and global standing. This is relevant, especially in safeguarding trade corridors, energy routes, and undersea cables. MAHASAGAR: The strategic horizon ahead The path to MAHASAGAR is paved with cooperative intent and pragmatic planning. India’s maritime future will hinge on institutionalised India-Africa naval dialogues and joint exercises with ASEAN, IOR, and BIMSTEC member states. Blue economy collaborations and eco-port development will be on the anvil, as will strategic maritime fellowship schemes for developing nation scholars. One would see an expanded role for the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS) as a dialogue-led maritime security platform. Also Read | Why India Must Act Now? The Escalating Security Risks from Bangladesh BIMSTEC, often seen as an underleveraged framework, presents enormous potential for regional maritime synergy. With a shared bay, BIMSTEC nations can co-develop maritime domain awareness architecture, crisis response protocols, and marine biodiversity initiatives under a shared governance rubric. As John J. Mearsheimer noted during the Rising Bharat Summit 2024, India remains an “aspiring great power” with the moral legitimacy and democratic character to stabilise the Indo-Pacific. This admiration, echoed across strategic capitals, highlights the Navy’s rising profile — welcomed with aspiration, not apprehension. Building sinews to synergy In a world where maritime zones are increasingly contested, India chooses connectivity over coercion. The Navy is the sinew of Indian foreign policy — linking vision to vessel, doctrine to diplomacy. From Karwar to Dar es Salaam, from Yangon to Kakinada, India’s maritime presence is anchored in trust. Sea lines are becoming lifelines, transforming India from a continental power with maritime interests into a maritime power with continental depth. As the Indian Ocean reawakens in the Indo-Pacific, the Indian Navy is no longer just a sentinel. It is the strategic sculptor of a more inclusive, resilient, and synergistic seascape. (Commodore (Dr.) Johnson Odakkal is a maritime scholar, strategic affairs analyst, and Indian Navy veteran. He serves as Faculty of Global Politics and Theory of Knowledge at Aditya Birla World Academy, Mumbai, and Adjunct Faculty of Maritime and Strategic Studies at Naval War College, Goa.) (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Sea lines of strategic synergy: India’s Navy and the rise of MAHASAGAR diplomacy

India’s defence strategy is evolving, and at the heart of this shift is the Indian Navy. From new fighter jets to powerful submarines, India’s naval force is fast becoming the country’s primary tool of power projection.

Indian Navy now the strike arm of India’s defence strategy

New Delhi: In a groundbreaking move to bolster maritime security and deepen ties with African nations, the Indian Navy is set to conduct its first joint exercise with several countries along the continent&rsquo;s eastern coast, with an eye toward combating piracy and other illicit activities at sea. The exercise named &lsquo;Africa India Key Maritime Engagement&rsquo; or Aikeyme, which means unity in Sanskrit, will aim to increase cooperation in tackling maritime security threats such as piracy, illegal activities including trafficking, and unregulated and unreported fishing through sharing of information and surveillance. The Indian Navy aims to hold these exercises every 2 years.
The maiden edition of the exercise was co-hosted by the Indian Navy and the Tanzania Peoples&rsquo; Defence Force (TPDF) and would be conducted at/off Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania. Indian defence minister Rajnath Singh will inaugurate the joint exercise, which will see participation from Comoros, Djibouti, Eritrea, Kenya, Madagascar, Mauritius, Mozambique, the Seychelles, and South Africa. While this time around East African countries are present, the plan is to broaden its scope to include West African countries in the next edition.
&ldquo;East Africa is important to us,&rdquo; Vice Adm. Tarun Sobti, India&rsquo;s deputy chief of naval staff, said at a news conference in New Delhi. &ldquo;You are well aware of the situation regarding piracy with regard to the east coast of Africa. Lots of issues on narcotics. These are peacetime, maritime security issues.&rdquo; The exercises will unfold in two phases. The harbour phase will feature tabletop simulations and command post drills centred on piracy and intelligence sharing, alongside training in seamanship and Visit, Board, Search, and Seizure (VBSS) operations&mdash;a key tactic for intercepting suspicious vessels. The Sea Phase comprises Seamanship evolutions, Search and Rescue, VBSS, Small Arms firing and Helicopter Operations.
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Coinciding with Africa exercises is a focus on the Indian Ocean Region with the Indian Ocean Ship (IOS) Sagar initiative. Under this, Indian Navy Ship INS Sunayna will be deployed in the Southwest Indian Ocean region, and will host crew from 9 countries&mdash;Comoros, Kenya, Madagascar, the Maldives, Mauritius, Mozambique, the Seychelles, Sri Lanka, South Africa. The ship will be deployed for over a month in April 2025 and will be undertaking port calls at Dar-es-Salaam, Nacala, Port Louis, Port Victoria, and Male. As part of the deployment, it will undertake Joint surveillance of Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs) of Tanzania, Mozambique, Mauritius, and the Seychelles.
&ldquo;The Indian Ocean region remains a very important region for us,&rdquo; Vice Adm. Sobti said, pointing to India&rsquo;s long-standing efforts to unite littoral states through forums like the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium. &ldquo;The region will remain relevant.&rdquo; 44 personnel from the 9 participating countries, will undergo training at various naval professional schools in Kochi and also witness the witness harbour phase activities of Exercise AIKEYME at Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania.
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Indian Navy&rsquo;s Aikeyme exercise and Indian Ocean Ship (IOS) Sagar initiative come at a time when India has been not only marking 10 years of its Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR) policy but also PM Modi during his Mauritius visit, announcing Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security Across the Regions (MAHASAGAR) policy. The Indian Navy, which sees itself as the &lsquo;Preferred Security Partner&rsquo; and &lsquo;First Responder&rsquo; in the Indian Ocean Region, will be key to Indian government&rsquo;s implementation of these policy, especially when the situation in Indian Ocean and the wider Indo-Pacific region sees emergence of new challenges, including illegal fishing, etc.

India News: Indian defence minister Rajnath Singh will inaugurate the joint exercise, which will see participation from Comoros, Djibouti, Eritrea, Kenya, Madagascar, Mauritius, Mozambique, the Seychelles, and South Africa.

New Delhi: In a groundbreaking move to bolster maritime security and deepen ties with African nations, the Indian Navy is set to conduct its first joint exercise with several countries along the continent’s eastern coast, with an eye toward combating piracy and other illicit activities at sea. The exercise named ‘Africa India Key Maritime Engagement’ or Aikeyme, which means unity in Sanskrit, will aim to increase cooperation in tackling maritime security threats such as piracy, illegal activities including trafficking, and unregulated and unreported fishing through sharing of information and surveillance. The Indian Navy aims to hold these exercises every 2 years. The maiden edition of the exercise was co-hosted by the Indian Navy and the Tanzania Peoples’ Defence Force (TPDF) and would be conducted at/off Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania. Indian defence minister Rajnath Singh will inaugurate the joint exercise, which will see participation from Comoros, Djibouti, Eritrea, Kenya, Madagascar, Mauritius, Mozambique, the Seychelles, and South Africa. While this time around East African countries are present, the plan is to broaden its scope to include West African countries in the next edition. “East Africa is important to us,” Vice Adm. Tarun Sobti, India’s deputy chief of naval staff, said at a news conference in New Delhi. “You are well aware of the situation regarding piracy with regard to the east coast of Africa. Lots of issues on narcotics. These are peacetime, maritime security issues.” The exercises will unfold in two phases. The harbour phase will feature tabletop simulations and command post drills centred on piracy and intelligence sharing, alongside training in seamanship and Visit, Board, Search, and Seizure (VBSS) operations—a key tactic for intercepting suspicious vessels. The Sea Phase comprises Seamanship evolutions, Search and Rescue, VBSS, Small Arms firing and Helicopter Operations. Also Read | Chile's President Gabriel Boric Font to visit India Coinciding with Africa exercises is a focus on the Indian Ocean Region with the Indian Ocean Ship (IOS) Sagar initiative. Under this, Indian Navy Ship INS Sunayna will be deployed in the Southwest Indian Ocean region, and will host crew from 9 countries—Comoros, Kenya, Madagascar, the Maldives, Mauritius, Mozambique, the Seychelles, Sri Lanka, South Africa. The ship will be deployed for over a month in April 2025 and will be undertaking port calls at Dar-es-Salaam, Nacala, Port Louis, Port Victoria, and Male. As part of the deployment, it will undertake Joint surveillance of Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs) of Tanzania, Mozambique, Mauritius, and the Seychelles. “The Indian Ocean region remains a very important region for us,” Vice Adm. Sobti said, pointing to India’s long-standing efforts to unite littoral states through forums like the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium. “The region will remain relevant.” 44 personnel from the 9 participating countries, will undergo training at various naval professional schools in Kochi and also witness the witness harbour phase activities of Exercise AIKEYME at Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania. Also Read | Top US official to visit India ahead of reciprocal tariff deadline Indian Navy’s Aikeyme exercise and Indian Ocean Ship (IOS) Sagar initiative come at a time when India has been not only marking 10 years of its Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR) policy but also PM Modi during his Mauritius visit, announcing Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security Across the Regions (MAHASAGAR) policy. The Indian Navy, which sees itself as the ‘Preferred Security Partner’ and ‘First Responder’ in the Indian Ocean Region, will be key to Indian government’s implementation of these policy, especially when the situation in Indian Ocean and the wider Indo-Pacific region sees emergence of new challenges, including illegal fishing, etc.

India’s Navy to conduct key maritime exercises with African nations

India's Navy Chief Admiral DK Tripathi said the country is closely monitoring Chinese vessels engaging in undeclared military work in the Indian Ocean region. China, which boasts of the world's largest navy with 370 warships and submarines, has now deployed seven to eight naval vessels on a permanent basis in the Indian Ocean region.

India's Navy Chief: Some Chinese vessels not doing what they have declared

Women have been inducted in the Indian Navy since the last three decades and the contribution of women officers has been evolving every year. WION gives you a glimpse into growing women's power in the Indian Navy.

WION Ground Report: Indian navy's women officers serve on warships, planes and choppers, naval bases

WION Ground Report: Indian navy's women officers take to skies

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