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India is intensifying its naval capabilities in response to mounting competition with China, marking a significant shift in its defence strategy towards maritime security. Traditionally focused on land borders, India is now extending its reach into international waters, demonstrating its naval strength through various initiatives such as anti-piracy patrols and strategic deployments near critical maritime routes.
In response to recent attacks on ships by Yemen-based Houthi rebels during the Israel-Hamas conflict, India deployed three guided missile destroyers and reconnaissance aircraft to the Red Sea. This move explains India’s proactive approach to maintaining maritime stability in the region. Vice Adm. Anil Kumar Chawla emphasized India’s growing role as a global maritime player, noting the country’s transition from a regional power to a significant force on the high seas.
India’s naval engagements, such as assisting ships under attack and participating in anti-piracy operations, highlight its commitment to maritime security. Despite tensions in the Red Sea, India has chosen not to join the U.S.-led coalition against Houthi rebels, preferring an independent stance.
Recent incidents, including providing aid to a tanker hit by a missile and responding to a distressed merchant vessel, depict India’s expanding maritime responsibilities and operational capabilities. Analysts attribute India’s increased naval activities to its rivalry with China, which has been expanding its presence in the Indian Ocean through infrastructure projects and naval deployments.
In response to China’s assertiveness, India has allocated a higher portion of its defence budget to the navy and forged strategic partnerships with regional and global allies. The Indo-Pacific strategic alliance, comprising India, the U.S., Australia, and Japan, aims to counter China’s maritime ambitions and ensure stability in the region.
While acknowledging the significance of the South China Sea, India remains cautious about direct involvement due to China’s dominance in the region. Nevertheless, India’s focus on maritime-oriented strategic thinking underscores its commitment to advancing its geopolitical interests in the Indo-Pacific.
Nevertheless, as tensions persist, Indian naval planners prioritize enhancing the country’s maritime capabilities to safeguard vital trade routes and counter potential threats. India’s proactive naval posture and strategic alliances reflect its determination to uphold maritime security and protect its interests in the face of evolving regional dynamics.