Ms Rupal Kalebere
The recent edition of the Biannual Naval Commanders’ Conference 2024, held from 5th to 8th March, marked a significant milestone in India’s maritime security agenda. As per the In Press release ‘The Hon’ble Raksha Mantri, Shri Rajnath Singh, presided over the inaugural session, with CDS, Defence Secretary and other senior MoD officials and Naval Commanders in attendance’.
As a pivotal institutional forum, this conference serves as a platform for in-depth discussions on critical maritime security issues at the Military-Strategic level. Here are some key takeaways from the event:
Strategic Deliberations Onboard INS Vikramaditya:
- The conference commenced with an inaugural session onboard INS Vikramaditya, emphasizing the operational readiness and strategic importance of the Indian Navy.
- Hon’ble Raksha Mantri, Shri Rajnath Singh, emphasized the imperative for the Indian Navy to maintain preparedness across the spectrum of conflict, particularly in response to recent developments in West Asia and adjoining seas. The CDS, the COAS and CAS also engaged with Naval Commanders during the conference to discuss convergence of three Services in light of common national security environment. They explored avenues to enhance tri-service synergy and readiness in defence of the nation and India’s national interests.
- It also included the first ever deployment of the INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya engaged in a two carrier operations which included several fire power demonstrations and seamanship evolutions.
Leadership Expectations and Tri-Services Integration:
- The Raksha Mantri highlighted the leadership role entrusted to the Indian Navy in ensuring peace and prosperity in the Indian Ocean Region.
- Emphasis was laid on the importance of Tri-Services Jointness and Integration, recognizing its significance in shaping the future battlespace and addressing evolving security challenges effectively.
Comprehensive Review and Future Plans:
- Subsequent sessions held in New Delhi, in a hybrid format, involved a comprehensive review of major operational, materiel, infrastructure, logistics, and personnel-related initiatives.
- Focus was on reviewing existing and future plans, including capability enhancements in island territories, to address contemporary and future challenges in the maritime domain.
Tri-Services Synergy and Cooperation:
- The engagement of Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Air Staff with Naval Commanders underscored the importance of Tri-Services synergy.
- Discussions revolved around assessing readiness levels to defend national interests amidst evolving security challenges and identifying avenues for enhancing cooperation across various domains.
‘Sagar Manthan’ Event:
- The sideline event, ‘Sagar Manthan,’ facilitated interactions between Naval Commanders and various ‘Think Tanks,’ MSMEs, innovators, and academia.
- This forum provided an opportunity to explore ways to further Aatmanirbharta initiatives and enhance self-reliance in defence production through collaboration and innovation.
The Naval Commanders’ Conference 2024 serves as a testament to India’s commitment to strengthening its maritime capabilities and fostering regional security cooperation. With strategic insights and collaborative efforts, the Indian Navy is poised to navigate the complexities of the maritime domain effectively, safeguarding national interests and contributing to global peace and stability.