New Delhi [India], November 1 (ANI): The Indian Navy is closely monitoring the presence of “extra-regional powers” in the Indian Ocean, Navy Vice Chief Vice Admiral Sanjay Vatsayan said on Friday.
Underlining the Indian Navy’s continuous surveillance, the Navy Vice Chief said that at any given time, there are 40 to 50 ships operating in the Indian Ocean and assured the Navy’s readiness to meet any contingency.
“There is a continuous presence of extra-regional powers in the Indian Ocean region due to the ongoing situation. It has always been that way, and it’s only increasing. At any given point in time, we have a minimum of 40, but even beyond 50-odd ships operating in the Indian Ocean,” Vice Admiral 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, and when they go out,” he added.
In September this year, reports emerged of the Chinese tracking vessel Yuan Wang-5 operating in the Indian Ocean. In the past, several similar incidents have been reported.
The Navy Vice Chief also highlighted challenges such as piracy, human trafficking, and drug smuggling through the Indian Ocean.
“The Indian Ocean is the main route for the transit of goods and oil globally, and that does not change. With it come several associated challenges, both traditional and non-traditional. We look across the spectrum—from piracy to human trafficking to drugs and so on. These challenges are present, and we are aware of them. We are ready to meet any contingency,” he said.
Further, Vice Admiral Vatsayan informed that the Indian Navy has inducted 10 ships and one submarine so far this year and that another four ships are expected to be delivered by the end of December.
“This year, we have inducted 10 ships and one submarine, and I am expecting another four ships to be delivered before the end of December. I think we have 19 vessels that are likely to be inducted next year, and most of them should be commissioned by December. The following year, about 13 ships are expected to be delivered to the Indian Navy,” he said.
Vice Admiral Vatsayan was addressing a press conference on the International Fleet Review (IFR), which will take place in February 2026.
The event will, for the first time, feature participation from the indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant along with the Kalvari-class submarines.
“Both the US and Russia have confirmed participation in the International Fleet Review and the Milan exercise. They will be sending their ships, and some aircraft are also expected,” he said.
He added that a large number of countries had been invited to the event, with over 50 nations expressing their willingness to attend the IFR, Milan exercise, and the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS). (ANI)
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