In a strategic move to counter China’s naval influence in the Indian Ocean region, India is poised to acquire an additional aircraft carrier, estimated at nearly ₹400 billion ($4.8 billion). The Defense Acquisition Council, led by Defense Minister Rajnath Singh, is expected to approve the acquisition of the second indigenous carrier on Friday, according to undisclosed sources.
The new carrier, capable of accommodating at least 28 fighter jets and helicopters and displacing 45,000 tons of water, is set to operate the French Rafale jets. This development follows the addition of India’s first homemade carrier, INS Vikrant, to the fleet last year, built by Cochin Shipyard Ltd. India also possesses a Russia-made aircraft carrier.
The move to establish a three-carrier battle group underscores India’s commitment to projecting strength in the Indian Ocean, countering the rising naval presence of the People’s Liberation Army Navy of China. The enhanced fleet provides India the capability to exert influence across distant locations continuously.
While the Indian Ocean is already heavily militarized, with 125 naval vessels, including those from the US, France, and Japan, India’s planned expansion aligns with its goal of having 160 warships by 2030 and 175 by 2035, estimated at a cost of ₹2 trillion. More than 60 vessels of the Indian Navy are currently under construction.
Upgraded runway facilities at the Andaman and Nicobar Islands allow night landings, reinforcing surveillance over vital water straits. The move comes amid heightened concerns over China’s growing naval capabilities.
