| PYQ Relevance: Q) What are the maritime security challenges in India? Discuss the organisational, technical and procedural initiatives taken to improve maritime security. (UPSC CSE 2022) |
Mentor’s Comment: UPSC mains have always focused on topics like ‘Indo-Pacific’ (2020) and ‘Maritime Security’ (2022).
Since late 2023, the Indian Navy has responded to numerous piracy incidents in the Indian Ocean, solidifying its role as a “first responder” in regional crises (Red Sea). These operations showcase India’s capabilities and reinforce its position as a preferred security partner in the region.
Today’s Editorial focuses on Maritime security initiatives taken by the government and enhancement opportunities. This content can be used for presenting the main answer while talking on ‘Indo-Pacific issues’ and ‘security challenges in the Indian Ocean’.
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
In 2024, the Indian Navy’s Operation ‘Sankalp’ expanded its maritime security efforts from the Strait of Hormuz to the Red Sea, enhancing its role as a key security partner by addressing piracy, hijacking, and drone threats while tackling the Hauthis issue.
- Additionally, the year saw notable advancements in the Navy’s operational preparedness, particularly in undersea warfare.
| What is Operation ‘Sankalp’? • The Indian Navy launched Operation ‘Sankalp’ on June 19, 2019, to ensure the safety of Indian ships in the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman. • The operation was launched in response to rising tensions in the Gulf of Oman, where two oil tankers were attacked. The Indian Navy deploys ships and aircraft to the area to monitor and protect Indian-flagged vessels • The operation has provided safe passage for an average of 16 Indian-flagged ships daily. The operation is coordinated by the Indian Ministries of Defence, External Affairs, Shipping, Petroleum and Natural Gas, and the Directorate General of Shipping. |
What are the current advancements in India’s submarine capabilities?
- INS Arighaat: India’s second nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine, commissioned in August 2024, enhances the country’s nuclear triad by providing a credible deterrence against regional threats, particularly from China, with its capability to launch K-4 missiles over 3,500 kilometres.
- Equipped with advanced sonar and propulsion systems, INS Arighaat significantly strengthens India’s maritime strike capabilities.
- Project-77 (P-77): It is an Indian Navy acquisition program to procure nuclear-powered attack submarines.
- The Cabinet Committee on Security recently cleared the long-pending Project-77 (P-77), giving its final approval to construct two nuclear-powered attack submarines (SSNs) at a cost of ₹40,000 crore. The delivery of the first SSN is scheduled for 2036-37.
What is the relevance of Conventional Submarines?
- Ongoing Importance: Despite the advancements in nuclear submarines, conventional submarines remain essential for various undersea missions that do not require nuclear capabilities.
- Project-75: India is set to commission INS Vaghsheer (the 6th Scorpene submarine), as part of its collaboration with France, with plans to order three additional boats to replace older decommissioned ones.
| Advancements in Technology: • Air Independent Propulsion (AIP): The effectiveness of conventional submarines has improved due to AIP technology, prompting Project 75(I) to seek AIP-enabled boats from contenders like Spain and Germany. • Indigenous Content: Future Scorpene boats are expected to feature 60% indigenous content, while Project 75(I) aims for at least 45% in the first boat, increasing to 60% in subsequent units. • Development of Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (UUVs): India has approved the construction of 100-tonne UUVs at a cost of ₹2,500 crore, enhancing undersea capabilities as a cost-effective strategic option. This initiative reflects India’s focus on niche technologies to address complex maritime threats effectively.Indigenous |
What are the Hurdles in Enhancing Undersea Capabilities?
- Strategic Importance: The Indian government’s focus on enhancing the Navy’s undersea capabilities alongside surface and aviation elements aims to ensure maritime stability and security, contributing to a balanced blue water force.
- Budgetary Challenges: Addressing long-standing budgetary issues is essential to align planned acquisitions and modernization efforts, as well as to mitigate excessive delays in project timelines.
Way Forward:
- Need for Sustained Funding: Continuous financial support for long-term projects, along with streamlined processes for defining requirements and evaluating tenders, is crucial for meeting the Navy’s strategic and operational needs.
- Opportunities for Collaboration: Strengthening partnerships with strategic allies and friendly maritime nations can enhance India’s maritime capabilities, support its vision of Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR), and promote a free and inclusive Indo-Pacific.
