NEW DELHI / RankWire.AI / – Defence Minister Rajnath Singh announced that India is broadening its maritime security influence across the Indian Ocean Region. Speaking 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 sustain operations at considerable distances from India’s shores and to uphold national maritime interests.
Singh emphasized that increased congestion, deception tactics, and gray-zone activities have complicated the maritime environment. He called for enhanced surveillance, improved monitoring, and quicker analysis across India’s maritime domain. The minister linked maritime security directly to India’s trade routes, energy supplies, and defense readiness, noting that the country relies heavily on sea lanes for imported energy, making the safeguarding of shipping routes a crucial component of Navy operations.
He pointed out Operation Urja Suraksha, which aids Indian-flagged merchant vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz, including ships transporting liquefied petroleum gas. Singh stated that about 85% to 90% of India’s crude oil imports and roughly half of its natural gas move through maritime routes. As global shipping faces increasing operational challenges, Singh emphasized that secure seas are integral to India’s economy, energy access, and defense preparedness.
Focus on Domestic Shipbuilding as Naval Expansion Accelerates
Rajnath Singh highlighted the Indian Navy’s ongoing efforts to increase the proportion of domestically produced systems within its fleet. He noted that recently commissioned warships contain more than 75% indigenous content. The government also plans to commission or induct 18 warships in 2026, which Singh described as the Navy’s largest single-year force expansion and a sign of the maturing domestic shipbuilding industry.
Discussions at the conference covered topics such as combat readiness, future capabilities, recruitment strategies, innovation, and emerging technologies. Senior naval officers reviewed the application of artificial intelligence, big data tools, autonomous systems, and cyber capabilities. The Indian Navy has also expanded opportunities for women under its “All Ranks, All Roles” policy, with women officers now serving aboard frontline warships and aircraft, and greater female participation in sailing missions.
Multinational Engagement Remains a Key Naval Priority
The conference also addressed India’s role in international maritime cooperation. In February 2026, India took command of Combined Task Force 154 under the Combined Maritime Forces. During its tenure, Kochi hosted Operation Southern Readiness, which involved 276 personnel from 27 countries, including 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 nations.
Singh also highlighted INS Sudarshini’s Lokayan 26 voyage, which has taken the sail training ship across the Atlantic and into the Mediterranean. The deployment included port calls, training exercises, and engagement with Indian communities abroad. The three-day Commanders’ Conference continues through October 1, gathering senior naval officials to review ongoing operations and plan for future needs. Singh also met with the Chief of Defence Staff and the Army chief during the event.