Countries that benefit from the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) continue to bolster their naval defense due to the region’s strategic importance as a vital trade route, a hub for global energy transit, and a region of growing geopolitical competition.
All the factors mean that naval power is a key in maintaining stability and projecting influence. The importance of the IOR cannot be underestimated, it remains a vital artery for global trade and energy transit, with a significant portion of world trade and energy supplies passing through its waterways.
From a security perspective, the region faces various maritime security challenges, including piracy, terrorism, and potential conflicts, requiring a robust naval presence to ensure stability and protect vital sea lanes.
India is quickly rising as a global hub for aerospace and defence technology looking to further develop its own capabilities while also being seen as a crucial partner for international aerospace and defence companies.
In January, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi commissioned three new warships - Surat, Nilgiri and Vaghsheer - to strengthen the country's efforts towards being a global leader in defence and augment its quest towards self-reliance.
Surat,is among the largest and most sophisticated destroyers in the world, equipped with state-of-the-art weapon-sensor packages and advanced network-centric capabilities; Nilgiri, incorporates advanced features for enhanced survivability, seakeeping, and stealth and Vaghsheer, represents the country's growing expertise in submarine construction.
Key regional partners like India, Japan and South Korea have integrated multiple Light Aircraft Carrier Groups (LACGs) to align with ongoing efforts to bolster their naval power and indigenise defence productions and capabilities. By leveraging the benefits of LCAGs and strengthening partnerships with like-minded nations, India can effectively address complex maritime security challenges in the region, while promoting stability and cooperation in the Indian Ocean. This strategic approach will enable India to maintain a strong and sustainable naval presence, while advancing its national interests and promoting regional security.
Integrating LCAGs with advanced unmanned systems would further amplify India’s maritime surveillance and strike capabilities, while minimizing human risk and aligning with the evolving paradigms of modern warfare.
The Indian Navy’s carrier groups feature the INS Vikramaditya and the indigenously built INS Vikrant. A typical Indian CBG includes an aircraft carrier with a displacement of around 45,000 tons, operating MiG-29K fighter jets and helicopters; 2 to 3 Kolkata-class destroyers (7,500 tons) equipped for air defense and ASW; 1 to 2 Delhi-class destroyers (6,700 tons) providing multi-role capabilities; 1 to 2 Shivalik-class frigates (6,200 tons) focused on ASW and air defense and 1 Kilo-class or Scorpène-class submarine (3,000 tons or 1,800 tons respectively) offering ASW capabilities.
The Akash, a medium-range surface-to-air missile (SAM) system is another example of the defence technology India is making available on the global stage, with the proviso that it is capable of detecting and tracking enemy aircraft at long ranges and engaging them effectively within a 25-kilometer radius.
India is increasingly moving towards becoming less reliant on imports and the country’s “Make in India” campaign also extends to its defence capabilities, fostering the promotion of local solutions for defence and aerospace requirements while focusing on self-defence.
Modi at the commissioning ceremony of the Surat, Nilgiri and Vaghsheer said these vessels will strengthen India's efforts towards being a global leader in defence and augment its quest towards self-reliance.
“This is the first time that a destroyer, a frigate and a submarine are being commissioned together. And the most important thing is that these three frontline platforms are made in India,” Modi said at the launch.
He said the country was being recognised as a reliable and responsible partner across the world and especially in the Global South.
“In shaping global security, economics and geopolitical dynamics, a maritime nation like India is going to play a huge role.”
The country’s aerospace and defence industry is focused on self-reliance and better infrastructure, assisting in strengthening its position domestically and globally.
* Dr Govender is an academic and a keen observer of issues related to international relations.
** The views expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of IOL or Independent Media.