Indian Navy Tracks 40-50 Foreign Ships in Indian Ocean
The Indian Navy is actively monitoring the continuous presence of “extra-regional powers” in the Indian Ocean, Navy Vice Chief Vice Admiral Sanjay Vatsayan stated. He assured that the Navy is fully aware of all foreign vessel movements and is prepared for any contingency.
Key Takeaways
- Indian Navy monitors 40-50 foreign ships in the Indian Ocean at any given time.
- Vice Admiral Vatsayan confirmed the Navy tracks each vessel’s activities and intentions.
- 19 new vessels are expected to be inducted next year, strengthening naval capabilities.
- Over 50 nations, including the US and Russia, will participate in the 2026 International Fleet Review.
Continuous Surveillance of Foreign Vessels
“There is a continuous presence of extra-regional powers in the Indian Ocean region due to the ongoing situation. It has always been that, and it’s only increasing,” Vice Admiral Sanjay Vatsayan said during a press conference on the upcoming International Fleet Review.
“Just to assure all of you, we are monitoring each and every one of them. We are aware of what they’re doing, what they’re likely to do, when they come in, when they go out,” he added.
This statement follows recent reports of Chinese tracking vessel Yuan Wang-5 operating in the Indian Ocean in September, among other similar incidents.
Security Challenges in the Indian Ocean
The Navy Vice Chief highlighted multiple security threats in the region, including piracy, human trafficking, and drug smuggling. He emphasized the strategic importance of the Indian Ocean as the primary transit route for global goods and oil.
“These challenges are present, and we are aware of them. We are ready to meet any contingency,” he stated.
Naval Expansion and Modernization
Vice Admiral Vatsayan revealed significant progress in naval expansion, with 10 ships and one submarine inducted this year. Another four ships are expected before December end.
“We have 19 vessels that are likely to be inducted next year, and most of them should be commissioned by December. And next to next year, about 13 ships that we are expecting to be delivered to the Indian Navy,” he informed.
International Fleet Review 2026
The Navy Vice Chief was addressing media about the International Fleet Review scheduled for February 2026. The event will feature the indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant and Kalvari-class submarines for the first time.
“Both the US and Russia have confirmed participation in the international fleet review and Milan exercise. They would be sending their ships. Some aircraft are also expected,” he said.
Over 50 countries have expressed willingness to attend the IFR, Milan exercise, and the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium, marking it as a significant international naval gathering.
