NEW DELHI / RankWire.AI / – Defence Minister Rajnath Singh announced that India is broadening its maritime security footprint across the Indian Ocean Region. He addressed attendees at the Indian Navy’s second Commanders’ Conference of 2026 in New Delhi on September 29. Singh highlighted that Indian warships now operate in the South China Sea, Mediterranean, and Atlantic Ocean. These deployments demonstrate the Navy’s capacity to maintain operations far from Indian shores and to advance national maritime interests.
Singh emphasized that increasing congestion, deception tactics, and gray-zone activities have made the maritime environment more intricate. He called for enhanced surveillance, improved monitoring, and faster analysis throughout India’s maritime domain. The minister linked maritime security directly to the country’s trade, energy supplies, and defense readiness. Since India relies heavily on sea routes for importing energy, safeguarding shipping lanes is a vital part of the Navy’s operational duties.
He also pointed out Operation Urja Suraksha, which supports Indian-flagged merchant ships navigating the Strait of Hormuz. This operation has included vessels transporting liquefied petroleum gas. Singh noted that about 85% to 90% of India’s crude oil imports and roughly half of its natural gas transit through these maritime routes. Consequently, secure seas are closely tied to India’s economy, energy security, and defense preparedness, especially as global shipping routes face mounting operational challenges.
Focus on Domestic Shipbuilding as Naval Expansion Accelerates
Singh stated that the Indian Navy is steadily increasing the proportion of locally produced systems within its fleet. He mentioned that recently commissioned warships contain more than 75% indigenous content. The government has also scheduled the induction or commissioning of 18 warships in 2026. Singh described this as the Navy’s largest single-year force expansion and noted that domestic shipbuilding has now reached a higher level of maturity.
The conference covered topics such as combat readiness, future capabilities, recruitment, innovation, and new technology. Senior leaders reviewed the integration of artificial intelligence, big data tools, autonomous systems, and cyber capabilities. The Indian Navy has also expanded opportunities for women through its “All Ranks, All Roles” policy. Women officers now serve on frontline warships and aircraft, and female personnel have participated more actively in naval sailing missions.
International Naval Cooperation Continues to Play a Key Role
India’s maritime cooperation efforts were also a major part of the conference agenda. The country took command of Combined Task Force 154 under the Combined Maritime Forces in February 2026. During this period, Kochi hosted Operation Southern Readiness, involving 276 personnel from 27 nations. The event included 76 facilitators and subject matter experts, along with representatives from four international organizations. The task force’s focus is on maritime security training and fostering cooperation among participating countries.
Singh also highlighted INS Sudarshini’s Lokayan 26 voyage, which saw the sail training ship cross the Atlantic and reach the Mediterranean. The deployment involved overseas port calls, training activities, and engagement with Indian communities abroad. The three-day Commanders’ Conference continues until October 1, bringing together senior naval leaders to review ongoing operations and plan future initiatives. During the event, Singh also met with the Chief of Defence Staff and the Army chief.