Navy Expands Surveillance, Submarine Warfare Capability Amid Rising Indo Pacific Tensions

The Indian Navy has significantly strengthened its anti submarine warfare capability , underwater surveillance systems , and network centric operations to respond to emerging maritime challenges in the Indian Ocean Region, according to Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi .

In an interview, he said the regional maritime environment is entering an “era of intense competition” , driven by the growing presence of the PLA Navy of China and its expanding cooperation with Pakistan . He clarified that India’s naval posture is not aimed at any specific nation, but is focused on safeguarding national maritime interests.

He added that the Indian Navy continuously tracks developments in the region and adjusts its force structure, deployment patterns, and operational readiness accordingly. Mission based deployments across key sea lanes and strategic choke points ensure persistent surveillance and rapid response capability.

He stressed that modern deterrence is not defined by numbers alone, but by credible capability , operational readiness , technological integration, and sustained presence at sea. The Navy is also investing in niche technologies to build asymmetric advantages and improve decision making in complex maritime situations.

A key priority remains the strengthening of the underwater domain , with expanded maritime surveillance, improved maritime domain awareness , and enhanced long range maritime reconnaissance to counter submarine threats more effectively.

He highlighted major modernisation efforts, including the Project 75 India (P75 I) programme for six advanced stealth submarines and the long term vision of a 200 plus ship Navy . Since 2025, the Navy has inducted two submarines and 18 warships , including destroyers, frigates, and anti-submarine warfare vessels.

On self-reliance, he said Atmanirbharta is central to India’s strategic autonomy . He described the shift from a buyer’s navy to a “builder’s navy” , noting the commissioning of the 100th indigenously designed warship as a major milestone. Currently, all 45 ships under construction are being built in Indian shipyards, with indigenisation levels close to 80 percent .

He said this transformation, along with steady capability enhancement, is crucial to ensure maritime security and maintain India’s operational edge in an increasingly contested Indo Pacific region.