India aims for 200-ship Navy by 2035 to counter China and Pakistan
UPSC / SSC current affairs note
Why in news
India is accelerating its naval expansion to achieve a 200-ship Navy by 2035, aiming to counter growing maritime threats from China and Pakistan. Currently, the Navy operates over 140 vessels, with 50 more under construction and a new warship entering service every six weeks.
Background
The Indian Navy has been modernizing its fleet to maintain regional dominance in the Indian Ocean. China's increasing naval presence in the region and Pakistan's naval capabilities have prompted India to expedite its shipbuilding programs.
Key facts
Indian Navy currently operates over 140 vessels including destroyers, frigates, and submarines.
50 warships are under construction to meet the 200-ship target by 2035.
A new Indian warship enters service approximately every six weeks.
The expansion aims to counter China and Pakistan's naval capabilities.
The target reflects India's strategic focus on the Indian Ocean region.
Prelims pointers
- Indian Navy: over 140 vessels currently
- Target: 200-ship Navy by 2035
- 50 warships under construction
- New warship enters service every six weeks
Mains angles
- Discuss India's naval modernization and its strategic implications for regional security.
- Critically examine the challenges in achieving the 200-ship Navy target by 2035.
- Analyze the role of the Indian Navy in countering China's maritime assertiveness in the Indian Ocean.