India launches three new naval vessels to boost maritime capabilities

India's navy has launched three new vessels, including a submarine, destroyer, and frigate, to enhance its maritime capabilities amid growing competition with China in the Indian Ocean. This marks a significant step in India's naval expansion. Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized India's ambition to become a major maritime power during the commissioning ceremony in Mumbai. The country aims to modernize its defense industry and increase its naval fleet from 150 to 170 ships over the next decade. In 2024, India invested a record $15 billion in domestic defense manufacturing, a 17% increase from the previous year. Despite these efforts, India remains a major arms importer, seeking partnerships with countries like the U.S., Israel, and France for advanced military equipment.