Indian Navy Enhances Maritime Surveillance in the Indian Ocean

The Indian Navy has recently intensified its maritime surveillance and domain awareness operations across the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), reflecting India’s growing role as a net security provider in the region. These efforts include enhanced coordinated patrols, real-time information sharing, and deeper engagement with partner nations to safeguard critical maritime interests.

Strategic Context and Rationale:
The Indian Ocean is a vital global maritime corridor, carrying a significant share of international trade and energy supplies. For India, secure Sea Lines of Communication (SLOCs) are essential for economic stability, energy security, and strategic autonomy. Increasing maritime traffic, non-traditional security threats, and rising geopolitical competition have made surveillance and situational awareness a strategic priority.

Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA) Initiatives:
The Navy has strengthened its Maritime Domain Awareness through advanced platforms such as long-range maritime patrol aircraft, unmanned systems, satellites, and coastal radar chains. Information fusion centres facilitate data-sharing with friendly countries, enabling real-time tracking of vessels and potential threats. Joint patrols and coordinated missions with regional navies enhance interoperability and trust.

Security and Stability Implications:
Enhanced surveillance plays a critical role in countering piracy, arms and narcotics trafficking, illegal fishing, and maritime terrorism. It also contributes to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations by enabling rapid response during maritime emergencies. By ensuring freedom of navigation, India supports a rules-based maritime order in line with international law.

Regional and Multilateral Engagement:
India’s maritime initiatives align with its Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR) vision. Partnerships with Indian Ocean littoral states, as well as engagement through multilateral frameworks, reinforce collective security and capacity-building in the region.

Challenges and Way Forward:
Sustaining maritime surveillance requires continuous investment in technology, infrastructure, and human resources. Balancing national security interests with cooperative regional engagement remains crucial.

Conclusion:
The Indian Navy’s enhanced maritime surveillance strengthens regional stability and protects vital SLOCs. Through proactive engagement and technological integration, India continues to assert its role as a responsible maritime power in the Indian Ocean Region.