India's Naval Surge: Record-Breaking Ship Launches Set Stage for Indo-Pacific Dominance

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In a significant shift in focus, the Indian Navy has set a new record by launching 12 warships, including 11 warships and one submarine, in just 12 months. This milestone marks a significant improvement in the Navy's construction timeline, with the duration of warship construction now reduced to 31 months from the previous 55-60 months. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to the INS Vikrant, where he witnessed night-fighter operations and live firing off the coast of Goa, highlights the government's renewed emphasis on its naval capabilities. The Indian Navy's focus on enhancing its maritime military capabilities and power projection in the Indo-Pacific has led to this remarkable achievement. The Navy's plans to add 17 ships in 2026, including guided missile frigates, next-generation off-shore patrol vessels, multi-purpose vessels, and anti-submarine warfare vessels, demonstrate its commitment to expanding its presence in the region. While the Indian Navy's construction pace is improving, it still lags behind global leaders like the US and China, which can build a ship in 18 days and a week, respectively. In addition to building warships, the Indian Navy is also acquiring submarine deterrence with the Project 75 I (air-independent propulsion or AIP) submarine set to be signed this financial year. The government has allocated ₹42,968 crore for the acquisition of six submarines, which will be constructed at Mazagon Dockyards Limited with AIP provided by German firm ThyssenKrupp Maritime Systems. India's concerns about China's growing naval presence in the region have led to increased scrutiny of Beijing's assistance to Pakistan in building its Navy. Pakistan currently has 53 combatants in its Navy, including five submarines and four frigates, and is set to receive four more submarines and frigates in the coming years. The Indian Navy has also been monitoring maritime developments in the Indo-Pacific, where the Chinese People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) is expanding its influence. To counter this, the Indian Navy has decided to increase the complexity of bilateral exercises, training, and port visits with the US Indo-Pacific fleet. The Navy is also set to acquire a nuclear attack submarine from Russia in 2028 and 26 Rafale-Marine jets in 2029, further increasing its power projection capabilities in the region.