Despite Ladakh thaw, China approach in Indo-Pacific still a worry: Navy chief

Last Updated04/12/2024

The thaw between Indian and Chinese forces in eastern Ladakh has not brought any change in the Chinese approach in the Indo-Pacific region and that remains a cause for concern, Indian Navy chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi said on Monday.

Despite progress in negotiations over the Depsang plains and Demchok in eastern Ladakh, Indian Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi stated that there has been no perceptible change in China's stance in the Indo-Pacific. Speaking ahead of Indian Navy Day on December 4, he expressed concerns over China’s activities in the region, particularly in the South China Sea, which remain a cause for worry.

Admiral Tripathi highlighted a clear nexus between China and Pakistan in the latter’s naval augmentation.
Pakistan Navy Expansion: Pakistan is set to become a 50-ship force by the next decade, with many ships and submarines either being built in China or under Chinese assistance.
Chinese Submarines: The last sighting of a Chinese submarine in the Indian Ocean was a visit to Karachi last year.
Strategic Response: India’s Navy is continuously monitoring these developments and adjusting its operational strategies to mitigate threats.

Rafale Marine Aircraft: Negotiations are at an advanced stage, with a deal expected soon.
Scorpene Submarines: A repeat order is also nearing finalization.

Recent successful ballistic missile tests from INS Arighaat indicate progress in strengthening the Navy's deterrence capabilities.
Over the next decade, India plans to acquire 96 new ships and submarines, with a significant portion being built domestically.

The Navy is closely observing activities of external powers, including the PLA Navy, in the Indian Ocean.
- Admiral Tripathi emphasized that while oceans are open for all, India ensures its security interests remain protected.

India, along with QUAD nations, is actively working on the Indo-Pacific Partnership for Maritime Domain Awareness (IPMDA). The initiative aims to enhance information sharing among countries to bolster regional security and maritime order.

Indian naval efforts have helped reduce piracy in the Gulf of Aden and Horn of Africa. India has maintained a ship in the region since 2008 to ensure secure trade routes.

Admiral Tripathi underscored the Navy's critical role in safeguarding India’s economic interests, as the majority of its trade depends on maritime routes. The ongoing modernization of the Navy is key to ensuring uninterrupted growth and global influence.