56 new warships to be inducted, 'Jointness' among 3 services moving forward: Naval chief

The government has approved induction of 56 new ships and six submarines to augment Indian Navy's overall prowess while the country's first indigenous aircraft carrier Vikrant has entered its final phase of construction, Navy Chief Chief Adm. Sunil Lanba said Monday.

Addressing a press conference on the eve of Navy Day, Adm. Lanba said a "great deal of progress" has been made on ensuring synergy and "jointness" among the three services.

At the same time, he said the Indian Air Force is against theatre commands and noted that a higher defence organisation must be set up before starting actual work in that direction.

In his nearly 70-minute media briefing, the Admiral listed various steps being taken to modernise his force including induction of a large fleet of military jets and choppers, adding the construction of a second indigenous aircraft carrier is expected to start within a period of three years.

On China fast expanding its naval prowess, the Navy Chief said, "By 2050, we will also have 200 ships, 500 aircraft and be a world-class navy."
Referring to overall security scenario in the region, Adm. Lanba said, "Our maritime security strategy is aimed at providing a maritime environment that is free from all forms of traditional and non-traditional threats to our national development."
About the strategic nuclear submarine project, he said the Indian Navy has successfully completed the first deterrence patrol of INS Arihant this year, adding, "with this, we have operationalised the third and the most survivable segment of the country's nuclear triad."