India is developing defense capabilities in the Indian Ocean

The Indian Navy simultaneously launched a submarine, a destroyer and a frigate on January 15, underscoring the importance of protecting the Indian Ocean region amid China’s strong presence. Associated Press reports.

India’s Defense Minister Rajnath Singh noted that the importance of the Atlantic Ocean is gradually shifting to the Indian Ocean, which is becoming the center of an international struggle for influence.

95% of India’s trade happens through the Indian Ocean.

“India attaches great importance to strengthening its navy to protect its interests,” he said.

While Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during the launch of the ships at the state-owned Mazagon shipyard in Mumbai, added that the commissioning of three major warships marks a significant step forward in realizing India’s vision as a global leader in defense production and maritime safety.

According to defense analyst Rahul Badi, the situation in the Indian Ocean region is complicated because China’s navy, India’s main rival, is growing exponentially.

Let’s recall that Xi Jinping and Modi held their first official negotiations in five years, agreeing to resolve territorial disputes.

Relations between the two countries have remained tense since 2020, when clashes between their militaries along a disputed border in the western Himalayas left 20 Indian and four Chinese soldiers dead. Then there was also a massive fight between the border patrols of India and China. About 150 people took part in the massacre. 13 soldiers were injured.

But in October 2024, India and China completed the withdrawal of military units and equipment from the disputed Ladakh area in the Himalayas, officially ending the four-year standoff.