Indian Navy strategic modernization and expansion

Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, Chief of the Naval Staff, has outlined the Indian Navy’s strategic focus on indigenous production and technological expansion to address an increasingly competitive maritime environment.

Initially, the Admiral highlighted the Navy’s progress in maritime self-reliance, noting the successful domestic construction of over 100 warships, submarines, and specialized vessels. He emphasized the transition from import dependence to indigenous production, citing the construction of the aircraft carrier INS Vikrant as a key achievement. Swaminathan expressed concern over the weaponization of geography and growing contestation over sea resources, particularly regarding conflicts in West Asia.

Building on this foundation of self-reliance, the Navy has set more ambitious long-term objectives. These include expanding the fleet to approximately 230 ships by 2040–2045 and developing sovereign space capabilities through collaborations with partners like Skyroot Aerospace. To counter evolving threats such as missiles and low-cost drones, the Navy is prioritizing the integration of emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, quantum systems, and space-based surveillance for networked operations.