In a recent statement, Bharat’s Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasized the Bharatiya Navy’s commitment to safeguarding the autonomy and sovereignty of nations in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). Singh highlighted Bharat’s role in upholding a rules-based maritime order and preventing any hegemonic dominance by powerful nations. Speaking at the opening ceremony of the new Administrative and Training building at the Naval War College in Goa, Singh reiterated Bharat’s dedication to assisting littoral countries in protecting their sovereignty.
Singh also noted a shift in threat perception, emphasizing the increasing importance of maritime security in light of heightened activity by adversaries in the IOR. He stressed the need to reallocate military resources and strategic attention to address emerging challenges effectively. Through these efforts, Bharat has emerged as a primary responder and preferred security partner in the IOR.
Chief of Naval Staff Admiral R Hari Kumar, speaking on the sidelines of the event, highlighted the spillover effects of conflicts in other regions on maritime security. He mentioned the activities in the Red Sea as a consequence of the Israel-Hamas conflict, where Houthis are targeting merchant ships with drones and missiles. The Admiral affirmed the Indian Navy’s support for merchant vessels navigating between the Red Sea and the Indian Ocean Region, particularly focusing on India-flagged vessels but extending assistance to any ship seeking help.
Admiral Kumar emphasized the asymmetry in modern warfare, where the cost of offensive capabilities such as drones and missiles is significantly lower compared to the cost of defense measures. He cited the example of the cost disparity between launching an attack with a relatively inexpensive drone or missile and the expenses involved in intercepting and neutralizing such threats. Despite these challenges, the Bharatiya Navy remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of maritime trade routes in the region.
In conclusion, Bharat’s naval leadership reaffirms its dedication to maintaining peace and stability in the Indian Ocean Region by thwarting hegemonic ambitions and addressing evolving security threats effectively. The Bharatiya Navy’s proactive approach underscores its role as a reliable security partner for nations in the region, ensuring the protection of their sovereignty and maritime interests.
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