India Enhances Maritime Defence Capabilities

India’s Defence Acquisition Council has approved capital acquisition of ₹21,772 crore. This initiative aims to strengthen the country’s maritime and coastal defence. It includes the procurement of 151 naval boats and six Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH) for the Indian Coast Guard. This move aligns with India’s strategic focus on securing the Indo-Pacific region.

Naval Boat Procurement

The Indian Navy will receive 31 Water Jet Fast Attack Crafts (NWJFACs) and 120 Fast Interceptor Crafts (FIC-1). The NWJFACs are designed for low-intensity maritime operations. They will enhance coastal surveillance, patrolling, and search-and-rescue missions. The FIC-1s are high-speed crafts capable of reaching 45 knots. They are armed and designed to escort high-value units. These acquisitions are essential for protecting India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and vital trade routes in the Indian Ocean.

Advanced Light Helicopters

The DAC has approved six Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH) Mk-III for the Indian Coast Guard. These helicopters are built by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited and feature advanced radar systems and sensors. They are capable of maritime reconnaissance and search-and-rescue operations. The ALH Mk-III can operate day and night and switch between offensive and humanitarian roles. This enhances the Coast Guard’s ability to secure sensitive maritime regions.

Aatmanirbhar Bharat Initiative

Both the naval boats and helicopters are part of the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative. This initiative aims to promote indigenous defence manufacturing. The focus is on reducing dependency on imports while boosting the local economy. This acquisition reflects the government’s commitment to building a self-reliant defence ecosystem.

Geopolitical Context

India’s maritime strategy is crucial for safeguarding its coastline and trade routes. The acquisitions come in response to the increasing presence of foreign powers, particularly China, in the Indian Ocean. Strengthening patrols and quick-response capabilities along India’s 7,500 km coastline is vital for national security.

Navy Modernisation Vision

The Indian Navy plans to induct over 90 warships and submarines in the next decade. This includes two nuclear-powered attack submarines expected by 2036-37. The Navy is also exploring advanced drones and marine versions of fighter jets to boost its capabilities. These efforts aim to ensure readiness against increasing maritime security challenges.

Defence Upgrades Overview

The recent acquisition is part of a broader strategy to modernise India’s defence across all domains. This includes upgrades to tanks and armoured vehicles, enhancing their operational readiness. The government is focused on addressing regional security challenges effectively.

Regional Maritime Security Challenges

India’s maritime modernisation is timely given rising geopolitical tensions in the Indo-Pacific. Securing the Indian Ocean is a priority due to its significance for trade and energy routes. The new acquisitions will better equip the Indian Navy and Coast Guard to protect national maritime interests.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Examine the significance of the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative in enhancing India’s defence capabilities.
2. Discuss the role of the Indian Coast Guard in maritime security. How has it evolved over the years?
3. With suitable examples, discuss the impact of geopolitical tensions on India’s maritime strategy.
4. Critically discuss the implications of modernising the Indian Navy on regional security dynamics in the Indo-Pacific.

Answer Hints:

1. Examine the significance of the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative in enhancing India’s defence capabilities.

1. Focuses on indigenous production, reducing dependency on foreign imports.
2. Encourages local industries and boosts the economy through defence manufacturing.
3. Promotes technological advancements and innovation in the defence sector.
4. Aligns with national security goals by ensuring self-sufficiency.
5. Facilitates quicker procurement and deployment of defence assets.

2. Discuss the role of the Indian Coast Guard in maritime security. How has it evolved over the years?

1. Responsible for coastal surveillance, search-and-rescue operations, and pollution control.
2. Expanded capabilities with advanced vessels and helicopters for enhanced maritime operations.
3. Increased collaboration with the Indian Navy and international maritime agencies.
4. Adapting to new threats such as piracy, smuggling, and environmental challenges.
5. Strengthening regional security through proactive patrolling and quick response missions.

3. With suitable examples, discuss the impact of geopolitical tensions on India’s maritime strategy.

1. China’s increasing naval presence in the Indian Ocean necessitates a robust maritime strategy.
2. India’s response includes enhancing naval capabilities and securing trade routes.
3. Examples include the acquisition of new vessels and helicopters to boost coastal security.
4. Geopolitical alliances, like QUAD, reflect India’s strategic positioning in the Indo-Pacific.
5. Focus on safeguarding Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZ) to protect national interests.

4. Critically discuss the implications of modernising the Indian Navy on regional security dynamics in the Indo-Pacific.

1. Modernisation enhances deterrence capabilities against regional adversaries.
2. Induction of advanced technologies and warships increases operational readiness.
3. Potential arms race may be triggered in response to India’s naval expansion.
4. Strengthened Indian Navy can encourage greater maritime cooperation with allies.
5. Impacts regional power balance, compelling neighboring countries to reassess their strategies.