India Naval Defence Boost: The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) has approved the purchase of 151 boats for the Indian Navy and six Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH) for the Indian Coast Guard. This approval is part of a bigger plan worth Rs 21,772 crore, which will help improve India’s naval and coastal security.
The decision comes just before Navy Day, showing the government’s focus on modernizing the country’s naval forces. Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh Kumar Tripathi spoke about how this plan fits into the goal of making India more self-reliant in defense. This move will strengthen India’s ability to protect its seas and improve the Navy’s reach and the Coast Guard’s ability to keep watch over coastal areas.
Navy’s commitment ensures nation’s safety, prosperity: PM Modi
India Naval Defence Boost: 151 New Boats
The Indian Navy has been approved to receive 151 new boats to strengthen its capabilities. This includes 31 Water Jet Fast Attack Crafts (NWJFACs) and 120 Fast Interceptor Crafts (FIC-1).
NWJFACs: These boats are designed for smaller-scale operations, like coastal patrols, search-and-rescue missions, and anti-piracy efforts. They will be especially useful around India’s islands.
FIC-1s: These high-speed boats can reach speeds of up to 45 knots and are equipped with machine guns and bulletproof cabins. They will protect important Navy assets like aircraft carriers and submarines and help respond quickly to maritime threats, such as piracy and insurgency.
These new boats will help protect India’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ) and ensure security along key trade routes in the Indian Ocean. A defense official explained that the boats will also provide flexibility for fast-response missions, including helping in natural disasters.
Indian Coast Guard Acquires Six Advanced Light Helicopters
In another important development, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) has approved the purchase of six Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH) for the Indian Coast Guard. These helicopters, made by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), will boost the Coast Guard’s ability to patrol and protect India’s extensive maritime borders.
According to Financialexpress, The ALH Mk-III helicopters come with advanced features, such as radar systems, sensors, and powerful searchlights, making them effective for operations both during the day and at night. These helicopters can operate from ships and are ideal for maritime reconnaissance, search and rescue missions, and even medical evacuations. They are versatile and can be used for offensive operations with heavy machine guns or for humanitarian tasks, like transporting critically ill patients.
India to Sign Rafale-M Jet and Scorpene Submarine Deals Next Month: Navy Chief
This acquisition supports the government’s push for self-reliance in defence production under the “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” initiative. The new helicopters will greatly enhance the Coast Guard’s ability to monitor and secure important maritime areas, especially the waters near Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh. They will work alongside the Coast Guard’s existing assets to ensure the safety and security of India’s coastline and territorial waters.
Why These Acquisitions are important?
India’s maritime strategy is all about securing its coastline, protecting key trade routes, and dealing with threats in the Indo-Pacific region. The approval of these boats and helicopters is an important move for:
- Enhanced Coastal Security: These new assets will strengthen patrols and improve the ability to respond quickly along India’s 7,500 km coastline, ensuring better protection of the country’s waters.
- Geopolitical Preparedness: With the growing presence of foreign powers, especially China, in the Indian Ocean, these acquisitions will help India maintain a strong defensive stance and safeguard its strategic interests in the region.
- Aatmanirbhar Bharat: By supporting the production of defense equipment locally, these acquisitions are aligned with India’s goal of reducing reliance on imports and boosting self-sufficiency in defense manufacturing.
India Naval Defence Boost Plans
Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh Kumar Tripathi recently outlined plans to strengthen the Indian Navy with over 90 new warships and submarines in the next decade. This modernization aims to boost the Navy’s capacity and address security challenges in the Indo-Pacific, especially with China’s growing naval presence.
Admiral Tripathi mentioned the upcoming induction of nuclear-powered attack submarines (SSNs) by 2036-37, adding to India’s fleet of nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs). Additionally, the ongoing construction of Scorpene-class submarines will further enhance India’s naval deterrence in the region.
“The Indian Navy is working to ensure future readiness in the Indo-Pacific, where maritime security challenges are increasing,” Admiral Tripathi said.
India-Russia Defence Ties in Focus: Rajnath Singh’s Moscow Visit and Putin’s 2025 Trip
Upgrades
India’s latest defence package is part of a broader strategy to modernize its military capabilities across all areas:
- Electronic Warfare Suite for Su-30 MKI Aircraft: New radar warning receivers and advanced jammer pods will help the aircraft avoid enemy radar and weapons.
- Upgrades to Tanks and Armoured Vehicles: The T-72 and T-90 tanks, BMP vehicles, and Sukhoi fighter engines will be overhauled to extend their service life and ensure they remain operational.
Maritime Security Strengthening
India is modernizing its navy at an important time due to rising tensions in the Indo-Pacific and China’s growing navy. The Indian Ocean is important for global trade and energy, so securing it is a top priority for India.
With new boats, helicopters, and advanced systems, India’s Navy and Coast Guard are better prepared to protect its maritime interests. A defense ministry spokesperson said, “These acquisitions show the government’s commitment to making sure India is ready to face new security challenges.”
