What`s Blue Water Navy And Why India Wants One? Deep Dive Into India`s Maritime Ambition-OxBig News Network

Blue Water Navy: The Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs deliberated on India’s strategy for the Indian Ocean region, including the concept of a Blue Water Navy, on Tuesday. India is now seriously considering putting in place formally a Blue Water Navy (BWN) amid the global conflicts and attacks from terrorist groups and pirates. The Indian Navy’s primary focus is on the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), a vast and geopolitically significant expanse where the threats are from countries like China, Pakistan and Bangladesh.

Notably, the Indian Navy on June 18 inducted INS Arnala – the pioneering Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft- in its fleet, thus flexing muscles against Chinese and Pakistani submarine threats. India has steadily been advancing its naval capabilities to build a powerful ‘Blue Water Navy’. But what exactly is a Blue Water Navy and why is it so crucial for a nation like India? 

What Is Blue Water Navy?

India’s Blue Water Navy refers to the Indian Navy’s capabilities to protect people and assets beyond its shores, operating across the deep oceans beyond the Indian Ocean Region. A blue water navy is capable of sustained operations across the open seas — including long-range deployments, amphibious warfare, maritime strike capabilities, and global presence.

So, what exactly is a Blue Water Navy? Think of it as a navy that can truly go the distance. Unlike a “green water navy” that sticks closer to its home coast, a Blue Water Navy is built to operate far out in the open ocean, for long periods. This means it needs some serious muscle: we’re talking powerful aircraft carriers, stealthy nuclear submarines, and all the logistical support to keep them supplied on those long journeys. Essentially, it’s about a nation having the ability to project its power across the globe’s vast seas, controlling key areas far from home.

Why Does India Want BWN?

For India, located at the heart of the vital Indian Ocean Region (IOR), the need for a blue water navy is multifaceted. Economically, the country’s prosperity is heavily reliant on sea trade, with crucial shipping lanes traversing the IOR. A strong navy ensures the security of these lifelines against piracy and other threats. Strategically, India aims to be a net security provider in the Indo-Pacific, maintaining freedom of navigation and countering the growing influence of other maritime powers, particularly China.

India’s serious about its naval ambitions, and you can see it in action. They’ve recently launched impressive, homegrown warships, like the aircraft carrier INS Vikrant and cutting-edge nuclear-powered submarines. This clearly shows their dedication to building that powerful blue water navy we talked about.

Of course, it’s not all smooth sailing. There are still hurdles, like budget limitations and the constant need for technological breakthroughs. But make no mistake: India’s drive to create a formidable blue water navy is a strong statement. It signals their growing influence on the global stage and their unwavering resolve to protect their interests across the vast oceans.