The Indian Navy: A Resident Power In Indian Ocean And Rising Leader In Indo-Pacific – Analysis

Wed Nov 20 08:55:03 UTC 2024: ## India’s Navy Charts a Course for Maritime Dominance in the Indo-Pacific

**NEW DELHI** – India’s Navy is undergoing a dramatic transformation, evolving from a coastal defense force into a major player in the increasingly contested Indo-Pacific region. Driven by a strategic vision outlined in the 2015 Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR) policy, the Indian Navy is actively shaping a rules-based maritime order through a blend of military strength and diplomatic engagement.

The recent commissioning of the INS Vikrant, India’s first indigenously built aircraft carrier, underscores this ambition. This modernization drive, coupled with the expansion of its submarine fleet (Project 75I), aims to counter growing maritime challenges, particularly from China. The Navy’s proactive approach includes robust participation in multilateral exercises like Malabar (with the US, Japan, and Australia) and bilateral engagements with key partners such as France, Australia, and Japan. These collaborations are designed to counterbalance China’s influence in the region while maintaining India’s strategic autonomy.

India’s commitment to regional stability is evident in its rapid response to maritime threats, as demonstrated by the 2024 deployment of 20 ships and 5,000 personnel. Goodwill visits to Southeast Asian nations like Singapore, Vietnam, and the Philippines further solidify India’s role as a net security provider and promote collaborative relationships. Simultaneously, initiatives like the Asia-Africa Growth Corridor (AAGC) present an alternative to China’s Belt and Road Initiative, showcasing India’s commitment to inclusive regional development.

The Indian Navy’s success hinges on technological advancements. Investments in AI-driven surveillance and unmanned underwater vehicles are central to maintaining its operational edge. However, the long-term success of India’s maritime strategy depends on its ability to sustain this momentum amid growing great power competition. The coming years will be crucial in determining India’s ultimate influence on the global maritime order.