India Rapidly Expanding Naval Capabilities While Reducing Foreign Dependence: Report
India strengthens naval capabilities through growing defence self-reliance.
India is rapidly expanding its naval capabilities while reducing dependence on foreign defence suppliers, as the country aims to build a navy of more than 200 ships over the next decade. Defence analysts have highlighted the recent commissioning of indigenous warships as a major step towards strengthening maritime security and countering growing naval challenges from China and Pakistan.
The induction of stealth frigate INS Mahendragiri and submarine hunter INS Malvan into the Indian Navy has been described as a significant milestone in India’s efforts to enhance domestic defence manufacturing. The two warships were built within the country, reflecting New Delhi’s push for self-reliance under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, particularly in the strategic defence sector.
INS Mahendragiri, designed by the Indian Navy’s Warship Design Bureau and constructed by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders, has around 75 per cent indigenous content. The vessel is the sixth ship of the Nilgiri-class frigate fleet, while the seventh and final ship in the class, Vindhyagiri, is expected to join the Navy soon. Additional next-generation warships under the proposed Project-17 Bravo are also in development.
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According to defence analysts, the Indian Navy currently has around 150 vessels, including approximately 135 frontline combat platforms such as destroyers, frigates and submarines. Nearly 50 more ships are under construction, making the target of expanding the fleet to over 200 ships by 2035 achievable if current momentum continues.
Former Rear Admiral and defence analyst Sanjay Misra said that India’s growing reliance on indigenous shipbuilding provides a strong foundation for achieving its naval expansion goals. He noted that the country’s maritime capabilities have improved significantly through projects such as the INS Vikrant aircraft carrier, Kalvari-class submarines and domestically built destroyers.
The Indian government last year announced an $8.4 billion maritime development package aimed at making India one of the world’s leading shipbuilding nations by 2047. Experts believe that while domestic manufacturing capacity has expanded, challenges remain, including shortages of skilled workers, supply chain limitations and constraints in producing certain critical systems.
Defence experts have suggested that India may continue selective partnerships with countries such as France, Russia, Israel and the United States for advanced technologies, including propulsion systems, sensors and weapons integration. At the same time, major components such as ship construction and systems integration are expected to remain largely domestic.
Analysts believe that strengthening naval power will be crucial for India to protect trade routes, secure maritime interests and maintain strategic deterrence in the region. With continued investment and carefully planned partnerships, India is expected to further enhance its position as a major maritime power.
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