India’s Rs 21,772 crore naval defence boost: What it means for maritime security

The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, has greenlit a major capital acquisition worth ₹21,772 crore. This package includes the procurement of 151 naval boats and six Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH) for the Indian Coast Guard. These assets aim to fortify India’s maritime and coastal defence capabilities, aligning with its broader strategy for a secure Indo-Pacific region.

Strengthening the Indian Navy: 151 Boats Approved

The Indian Navy will receive 31 Water Jet Fast Attack Crafts (NWJFACs) and 120 Fast Interceptor Crafts (FIC-1).

• NWJFACs: Designed for low-intensity maritime operations, these vessels will bolster coastal surveillance, patrolling, and search-and-rescue missions. They will also play a critical role in anti-piracy operations around India’s islands.
• FIC-1s: These high-speed crafts, capable of reaching 45 knots, are equipped with machine guns and bullet-resistant cabins. They will escort high-value units such as aircraft carriers and submarines while enhancing response to maritime threats like piracy and insurgency.

These acquisitions are crucial for safeguarding India’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ) and ensuring security along vital trade routes in the Indian Ocean. "These new boats will provide operational flexibility for rapid-response missions, including humanitarian assistance during natural disasters," said a defence official familiar with the procurement.


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Advanced Light Helicopters to Bolster Coast Guard Operations

The DAC has also approved six indigenously manufactured Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH) Mk-III for the Indian Coast Guard. Built by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), these helicopters feature advanced radar systems, electro-optical sensors, and high-intensity searchlights.

Capabilities: The ALH Mk-III can perform maritime reconnaissance, search-and-rescue operations, and medical evacuations, operating effectively day and night. They can switch between offensive roles, with heavy machine guns, and humanitarian missions, such as transferring critically ill patients.
“These helicopters will significantly enhance the Coast Guard’s ability to monitor and secure sensitive maritime regions, including the waters off Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh,” noted a senior Coast Guard official.

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A Step Towards Self-Reliance in Defence

Both the boats and helicopters are being procured under the “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” initiative, which focuses on building indigenous defence manufacturing capabilities. The government’s emphasis on domestic production aligns with its vision of a self-reliant defence ecosystem, reducing dependency on imports while boosting the local economy.

Why These Acquisitions Matter

India’s maritime strategy focuses on safeguarding its coastline, protecting trade routes, and addressing threats in the Indo-Pacific region. The addition of these boats and helicopters is a critical step in:

• Enhanced Coastal Security: Strengthening patrols and quick-response capabilities along the 7,500 km coastline.
• Geopolitical Preparedness: Addressing the increasing presence of foreign powers, particularly China, in the Indian Ocean.
• Aatmanirbhar Bharat: Supporting indigenous defence manufacturing and reducing dependency on imports.

Navy Chief’s Vision for Modernisation

Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh Kumar Tripathi recently outlined the Navy’s strategic goals, highlighting the planned induction of over 90 warships and submarines in the next decade. He revealed that two nuclear-powered attack submarines (SSNs) are expected to join the fleet by 2036-37, complemented by the ongoing construction of Scorpene-class submarines.

“The Indian Navy is working to ensure future readiness in the Indo-Pacific, where maritime security challenges are increasing,” Admiral Tripathi said. The Navy is also pursuing advanced drones like the MQ-9 Reaper and marine versions of the Rafale fighter jets to strengthen its surveillance and combat capabilities.

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Comprehensive Defence Upgrades

This latest package forms part of a broader strategy to modernise India’s defence capabilities across all domains:

• Electronic Warfare Suite for Su-30 MKI Aircraft: These systems include next-generation radar warning receivers and advanced jammer pods, enhancing the aircraft’s ability to evade enemy radar and weapon systems.
• Upgrades to Tanks and Armoured Vehicles: The DAC approved the overhaul of T-72 and T-90 tanks, BMP vehicles, and Sukhoi fighter engines to extend their service life and ensure operational readiness.
• These measures are being implemented as India faces increasing maritime and aerial security challenges.

Addressing Regional Maritime Security Challenges

India’s maritime modernisation drive is timely, given rising geopolitical tensions in the Indo-Pacific, particularly with China’s expanding naval presence. The Indian Ocean remains a critical area for trade and energy routes, and securing it is a priority for India.

With the induction of these new boats, helicopters, and advanced systems, the Indian Navy and Coast Guard are better equipped to safeguard the nation’s maritime interests. "The approval of these acquisitions demonstrates the government’s commitment to ensuring India’s readiness to tackle emerging security threats," a defence ministry spokesperson said.