Chennai, India – The Indian Navy is setting its sights on a significant expansion, aiming to have a fleet of over 200 ships by 2035, with nearly 90% of components sourced domestically. This ambitious goal was announced by Vice Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Naval Command, during his keynote address at THE WEEK Maritime Conclave 2024 in Chennai.
Vice Admiral Pendharkar emphasized the Navy's commitment to "Aatma Nirbharta" (self-reliance), with the goal of becoming completely self-sufficient by 2047. He highlighted the Navy's growth from a mere 35 ships at the time of India's independence to its current strength of around 130 ships, organized into two capable fleets. This growth has been driven by a strategic focus on maritime security, anti-piracy efforts, and collaborative missions with regional navies, particularly in the wake of the 9/11 attacks.
The Vice Admiral also spoke about India's evolving maritime strategy, shifting from a "look east" to an "act east" policy. This has led to an expanded area of operations, with the Indian Navy now active in the Gulf of Guinea, the Mediterranean Sea, the Pacific Ocean, and the Southern Ocean, conducting surveillance, joint exercises, and anti-piracy operations.
Underscoring the Navy's crucial role in protecting India's maritime interests, Vice Admiral Pendharkar pointed out that 95% of India's trade by volume and 70% of its energy needs transit through the Indian Ocean. With India's ocean economy projected to exceed one trillion dollars by 2025, the Navy plays a vital role in safeguarding trade routes, ensuring energy security, and promoting economic growth.
To achieve these ambitious goals, the Vice Admiral stressed the need to develop and modernize India's shipbuilding industry and enhance trans-shipment hubs. He believes that India's 7,500 km coastline can propel the nation to become a major maritime power.
Vice Admiral Pendharkar, an anti-submarine warfare specialist with a distinguished career commanding several frontline ships, also delved into India's rich maritime history. He referenced ancient texts like the Rig Veda, which mentions ships and maritime trade as far back as 1500 BC, and highlighted the contributions of ancient Indian kingdoms to the maritime industry. He drew parallels between India's historical maritime strength and its current aspirations to reclaim its position as a leading maritime power.
This ambitious plan for naval expansion reflects India's growing focus on its maritime capabilities and its commitment to self-reliance in defence. With a larger and more technologically advanced fleet, the Indian Navy is poised to play an even greater role in safeguarding India's interests in the Indo-Pacific region and beyond.
