The Indian Navy is set to induct or commission 18 warships in 2026, marking the largest single-year addition to the force in its history, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said at the Navy’s Commanders’ Conference in New Delhi.
The vessels will include frontline combat platforms as well as specialised support ships. The warships are being built at Indian shipyards, highlighting the country’s growing focus on indigenous naval manufacturing and defence self-reliance. Recently commissioned Indian warships have more than 75% indigenous content, according to Singh.
Singh said the Navy is working towards building a fleet of more than 200 ships by 2035. He also highlighted the force’s expanding operational presence, with Indian warships deployed in areas including the South China Sea, the Mediterranean and the Atlantic, reflecting its growing blue-water capabilities.
The Defence Minister also called for an upgrade of India’s maritime surveillance systems. He said increasing maritime traffic and emerging challenges such as congestion, deception and grey-zone activities require stronger monitoring, analysis and response capabilities.
Singh further stressed the importance of protecting sea lanes, noting that India imports around 85–90% of its crude oil and about 50% of its natural gas through maritime routes.
