In a significant demonstration of its maritime capabilities, the Indian Navy is undertaking an accelerated expansion, with Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi announcing the induction of a new indigenous warship or submarine every 40 days. This rapid rate places India among the fastest naval expansion efforts in the world, reinforcing the country’s commitment to achieving complete self-reliance, or “Atmanirbharta,” in defense and maritime operations.
Currently boasting a fleet of approximately 145 ships and submarines, the Indian Navy aims to exceed 200 vessels by the year 2035. This objective is supported by the ongoing construction of all 52 warships in domestic shipyards, highlighting India’s enhanced shipbuilding capabilities and industrial growth.
Admiral Tripathi emphasized that self-reliance in naval capabilities transcends mere ship and submarine construction; it encompasses the development of a comprehensive industrial, innovation, and digital ecosystem. This includes indigenous components, secure information networks, semiconductors, and advanced data links. He framed self-reliance, synergy, and security as the three foundational pillars of India’s maritime power.
In addition, the Navy Chief reiterated the service’s commitment to forming strategic maritime partnerships that adhere to principles of mutual benefit and shared objectives. This aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s MAHASAGAR vision—Mutual And Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions—which seeks to bolster India’s collaboration with nations in the Global South through trust, transparency, and coordinated maritime efforts like patrols and humanitarian assistance missions.
Reflecting on the country’s defense trajectory, Admiral Tripathi noted that India’s defense production has more than tripled over the past decade, now exceeding ₹1.5 lakh crore. This impressive growth indicates a significant enhancement in domestic manufacturing and technological expertise. He also indicated a shift in focus from the “Make in India” initiative to “Trust in India,” signaling the global community’s growing confidence in India’s defense manufacturing capabilities.
As the Indian Navy accelerates its modernization efforts, it is not just bolstering fleet strength but also increasing indigenous content at the component level, with aspirations of achieving full self-reliance by 2047, which marks the centenary of India’s independence.
Through swift indigenous production, technological innovation, and principled international engagement, the Indian Navy is methodically advancing toward its goal of becoming a formidable self-reliant maritime power by mid-century.
