This issue starts with an exclusive interaction with CNS Admiral R. Hari Kumar. The CNS gave an overview of the global security environment & an insight into the modernisation plans of the Indian Navy through indigenisation. He stressed that as technology advances, the Navy and its manpower will keep pace. He said that we are witnessing a significant geo-political transformation in our maritime environment and a shift to a multipolar world centred around the Indo-Pacific. The CNS then said that Indian Navy’s commitment to ‘Self Reliance in Defence Production’ is evident from the fact that all 28 ships and submarines commissioned into the Navy over the last seven years have been built in India. Further, of the 39 ships and submarines, currently under construction, 37 are being built at Indian shipyards.

In an article on ‘Indigenisation’, Vice Admiral Chawla (Retd) gives a brief overview of the process which opened up for 100 per cent participation by private players and how new energy has been injected into the private sector with incentives & friendly modified procedures. He observed that multi-vendor competition is necessary for commonly used items but is a disincentive for the private sector in the case of big-ticket items.

The article on Aircraft Carriers by Vice Admiral Sinha (Retd) makes a case for three aircraft carriers which has also been recommended by the Standing Committee of Defence of the Parliament due to India’s own serious challenges in the Indian Ocean Region. Maritime threats have accentuated due to the collusion of Pakistan and China. The argument is buttressed by highlighting the power of the battle groups centred around aircraft carriers which offer the ability to support land operations, shift theatre as the situation may demand and choke points during prolonged operations. A very logical & cogent argument made for three aircraft carriers.

Then there is an article on Exercise Milan 2022 where the actual participation of ships/delegations was from about 31 countries (with the other countries being represented by their diplomatic representatives in India). The invitation list for participation truly reflects the global reach and influence of the Indian Navy.

Happy reading you discerning readers!