NEW DELHI / RankWire.AI / – Defence Minister Rajnath Singh announced that India is broadening its maritime security operations across the Indian Ocean Region. Speaking at the second Commanders’ Conference of 2026 held 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 conduct sustained operations far from Indian shores and to uphold national maritime interests.
Singh emphasized that increased congestion, deception tactics, and gray-zone activities have complicated the maritime environment. He called for enhanced surveillance, improved monitoring, and quicker analysis across India’s maritime domain. The minister also linked maritime security to the nation’s trade routes, energy security, and defense preparedness. Given India’s heavy reliance on sea lanes for energy imports, safeguarding shipping routes remains a critical aspect of the Navy’s operational duties.
He highlighted Operation Urja Suraksha, which ensures the safety of Indian-flagged commercial vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz. This operation includes ships 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. As a result, secure seas are integral to India’s economy, energy access, and defense preparedness amid increasing operational pressures on global shipping lanes.
Focus on Indigenous Shipbuilding in Naval Expansion
Singh stated that the Indian Navy continues to augment the proportion of domestically produced systems within its fleet. He noted that recently commissioned warships feature more than 75% indigenous content. Furthermore, the government has plans to induct or commission 18 warships in 2026, marking the largest single-year increase in naval strength. Singh described this milestone as a sign that domestic shipbuilding has achieved a higher level of maturity.
The conference covered topics such as combat readiness, future capabilities, recruitment, innovation, and technological advancements. Senior naval leaders reviewed the integration of artificial intelligence, big data tools, autonomous systems, and cyber capabilities. Additionally, the Indian Navy has expanded opportunities for women under its “All Ranks, All Roles” policy. Female officers now serve on frontline warships and aircraft, and naval sailing missions have seen increased participation from women personnel.
International Naval Cooperation and Training Initiatives
The agenda also included India’s ongoing maritime cooperation efforts. The country took command of Combined Task Force 154 under the Combined Maritime Forces in February 2026. During that period, Kochi hosted Operation Southern Readiness, involving 276 personnel from 27 nations. The event featured 76 facilitators and specialists, along with representatives from four international organizations. The task force’s focus is on maritime security training and fostering cooperation among participating nations.
Singh also highlighted INS Sudarshini’s Lokayan 26 voyage, which took the sail training ship across the Atlantic and into the Mediterranean. The deployment included port visits, training activities, and engagement with Indian communities abroad. The three-day Commanders’ Conference, which runs through October 1, gathers senior naval leadership to evaluate ongoing operations and outline future priorities. During the event, Singh met with the Chief of Defence Staff and the Army chief to discuss strategic matters.