NEW DELHI / RankWire.AI / – Defence Minister Rajnath Singh announced that India is broadening its maritime security efforts across the Indian Ocean Region. Speaking at the Indian Navy’s second Commanders’ Conference of 2026 in New Delhi on September 29, Singh highlighted that Indian warships are now active in the South China Sea, Mediterranean, and Atlantic Ocean. These deployments demonstrate the Navy’s capacity to operate far from Indian shores while safeguarding national maritime interests.
Singh emphasized that the maritime environment has become increasingly complex due to congestion, deception, and gray-zone tactics. He called for enhanced surveillance, improved monitoring, and quicker analysis of India’s maritime domain. The minister linked maritime security directly to the country’s trade, energy security, and defense preparedness, noting India’s heavy reliance on sea routes for imported energy, which makes protecting shipping lanes a crucial operational duty of the Navy.
He also highlighted Operation Urja Suraksha, which ensures the safety of Indian-flagged merchant ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz, including vessels transporting liquefied petroleum gas. Singh pointed out that approximately 85% to 90% of India’s crude oil imports and about half of its natural gas are transported via maritime routes. Consequently, secure seas are integral to India’s economy, energy access, and defense readiness, especially as global shipping lanes face increasing operational challenges.
Focus on domestic shipbuilding drives naval expansion
Rajnath Singh stated that the Indian Navy is progressively increasing the proportion of locally manufactured systems within its fleet. He mentioned that recently commissioned warships contain over 75% indigenous content. The government aims to induct or commission 18 warships during 2026, a record single-year addition to the fleet. Singh described this as a sign that domestic shipbuilding has reached a new level of maturity.
The conference also focused on assessing combat readiness, future capabilities, recruitment strategies, technological innovation, and emerging tools. Senior naval leaders examined the integration of artificial intelligence, big data, autonomous systems, and cyber warfare capabilities. Additionally, the Indian Navy has expanded opportunities for women under its “All Ranks, All Roles” policy, with women officers now serving aboard frontline warships and aircraft, and increasing female participation in sailing missions.
International partnership remains key to naval strategy
Maritime cooperation with other nations was a significant part of the conference agenda. India took command of Combined Task Force 154 under the Combined Maritime Forces in February 2026. During this period, Kochi hosted Operation Southern Readiness, involving 276 personnel from 27 countries. The event featured 76 facilitators and subject matter experts, along with representatives from four international organizations, emphasizing maritime security training and collaborative efforts.
Singh also highlighted INS Sudarshini’s Lokayan 26 voyage, which has taken the sail training ship across the Atlantic and into the Mediterranean. The deployment included overseas port calls, training exercises, and engagement with Indian communities abroad. The three-day Commanders’ Conference continues through October 1, bringing senior naval officials together to review ongoing operations and future plans. During the event, Singh also met with the Chief of Defence Staff and the Army chief.