Karwar Naval Base: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh visited the Karwar naval base in Karnataka on Saturday, 5ht April to open several new infrastructure facilities. The minister arrived at the base around 1 pm in a military helicopter and received a ceremonial Guard of Honour. He spent several hours at the base, attending multiple events during his visit.
The Indian Navy is upgrading the Karwar base under Project Seabird, which is a major expansion plan to strengthen India’s security in the Indian Ocean. This project supports India’s SAGAR initiative (Security and Growth for All in the Region), which aims to build stronger ties with neighboring countries for peace and development
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Earlier in March 2024, Rajnath Singh had also inaugurated other important facilities at this base, which plays an important role in protecting India’s interests in the Indian Ocean.
Raksha Mantri Shri @rajnathsingh will flag off #INSSunayna as the Indian Ocean Ship SAGAR with 44 personnel from 9 navies embarked onboard, from #Karwar today.
IOS SAGAR will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the Indian Ocean Region, reaffirming India’s commitment to… pic.twitter.com/8V6tj0md4b
— रक्षा मंत्री कार्यालय/ RMO India (@DefenceMinIndia) April 5, 2025
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The first phase of Project Seabird was completed in 2011 and allowed the base to hold 10 warships. It included a long pier for docking ships, a 10,000-ton ship lift, repair yards, storage for weapons and supplies, and housing for 1,000 navy personnel.
Safe Seas, Sustainable Future 🌊
On #NationalMaritimeDay, #IndianNavy 🫡s the unwavering commitment of our mariners who uphold India’s proud maritime legacy. ⚓
We remain steadfast – to protect, to serve and to stand by every #seafarer at sea 🚢#राष्ट्रीय_समुद्री_दिवस… pic.twitter.com/XgPoCGE05t
— IN (@IndiannavyMedia) April 5, 2025
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Now the government has approved Phase-IIA of the project, which will expand the base to accommodate 32 ships and submarines, along with 23 smaller vessels. This upgrade will make Karwar one of the largest naval bases in India, increasing security and faster response to threats in the area.
