Indian Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi on Monday said that India is prepared to complete the acquisition of three additional Scorpene submarines and 26 naval-variant Rafale-M fighter jets.
The statement, which highlighted initiatives to improve India’s maritime defence capabilities, was made at a press briefing ahead of Navy Day.
Admiral Tripathi also emphasised the government’s clearance of two nuclear-powered submarines or SSNs, describing it as a major testament to India’s domestic capacity to build advanced naval machinery.
He said, “We have increased our efforts to integrate specialised technologies into the force.”
The INS Vikrant, India’s first indigenously built aircraft carrier, is set to be armed with the carrier-based Rafale-M jets. In July 2022, the Defence Ministry authorised the purchase, which intends to improve India’s naval aviation capability. The Navy Chief noted that the agreement is likely to be finalised by January of next year.
Furthermore, the nation’s dedication to self-reliance in defence manufacture is demonstrated by the 62 ships and one submarine that are presently being manufactured domestically.
Several platforms are awaiting completion, and at least one ship is anticipated to be brought into the Navy within the next year, according to Admiral Tripathi.
Admiral Tripathi, addressing concerns about regional security, underscored the Navy’s preparedness to respond to threats from neighbouring countries, including Pakistan’s efforts to bolster its maritime capabilities.
India’s larger plan to modernise its military and protect its strategic interests, especially in the Indo-Pacific region, is reflected in the purchase of these advanced technologies.
According to experts, these technological advances will strengthen the Navy’s capacity to protect regional stability and greatly increase its operational strength.
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