Building an Atmanirbhar Indian Navy by 2047

Source: The post Building an Atmanirbhar Indian Navy by 2047 has been created, based on the article “54 vessels are being built for Navy; 10 to join fleet this year” published in “The Hindu” on 23 September  2025. Building an Atmanirbhar Indian Navy by 2047.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 3 –Internal Security.

Context: India is executing its largest naval build. 54 vessels are under construction in Indian shipyards. This push secures maritime interests, supports SAGAR, and counters regional challenges. The effort aligns with Atmanirbhar Bharat and the goal of a capable, Atmanirbhar Navy by 2047.

For detailed information on India’s Maritime Atmnirbharta read this article here

What is the vision of an Atmanirbhar Indian Navy by 2047?

1. Combat-ready and future-focused: The Navy seeks to remain a Combat Ready, Credible, Cohesive, and Future Ready Force. It aims to deliver effects across the spectrum of conflict through a balanced, networked, multi-domain force.
2. Economic and trade enabler: India’s GDP could surpass $26 trillion by 2047. With 95% of trade by volume and 68% by value sea-borne, secure sea lanes and port access are essential to growth and export-led development.
3. Atmanirbhar commitment: An unequivocal commitment to be Atmanirbhar by 2047 will deepen defence self-reliance, generate employment, and contribute to Viksit Bharat..

What are the major indigenous shipbuilding and submarine projects that will drive self-reliance in naval capabilities?

1. Build & induction timeline: 54 vessels are in domestic build; several near delivery, with up to 10 warships to be commissioned by December 2025. All 54 are planned to join the fleet by 2030.
2. From buyer to builder: A significant number of warships are under construction in Indian yards, confirming the shift to a “Builder’s Navy.” The expanding programme reflects long-term maritime self-reliance.
3. Recent milestones : INS Tamal, a Russian-built frigate, was commissioned as the last major warship constructed abroad. INS Androth, an ASW Shallow Water Craft with over 80% indigenous content, showcases growing domestic capability.
4. Project-75(I): Six AIP-equipped conventional submarines will be built in India with Transfer of Technology. Progressive indigenisation covers weapons, communications, navigation, and CWCS, enabling MRO, logistics support, jobs, and export potential.

How is the Navy planning to achieve technological self-reliance across the five domains—space, air, surface, sub-surface, and cyber?

1. Space: Space-based Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) is being prioritised to raise maritime domain awareness and battle-space transparency. Better sensing and continuous visibility will support faster, more accurate decisions across missions.
2. Air: Shore-based and integral naval aviation will handle surveillance, fleet air defence, maritime and shore strike, anti-submarine warfare (ASW), special operations, search and rescue (SAR), intelligence gathering, and fleet logistics/communications. Plans include Twin Engine Deck Based Fighter (TEDBF), Deck Based Multi-Role Helicopters, and long-range maritime reconnaissance aircraft. Unmanned and autonomous systems with Manned–Unmanned Teaming (MUMT) will deepen reach and persistence.
3. Surface: Centre on Carrier Strike Groups, next-generation destroyers, long-range precision seaborne attack vectors, credible land-attack, and expeditionary platforms for rapid, flexible power projection..
4. Sub-surface: An optimum mix of conventional submarines and nuclear-powered attack submarines (SSNs) will strengthen sea denial and undersea dominance. Nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs) will remain the most potent and reliable component of the nuclear triad, ensuring credible strategic deterrence.
5. Cyber: Sharp offensive and robust defensive cyber capabilities will protect networks and platforms while disrupting adversaries. Cyber power will act as a force multiplier, enabling and amplifying effects across space, air, surface, and sub-surface operations.

What role do manpower, training, and recruitment reforms play in building a self-reliant and future-ready Navy?

1. People-centric development: Policies foster holistic professional and personal growth. Organisational excellence and individual skills are strengthened to retain motivated human capital.
2. Realistic training: High-quality professional training under realistic combat conditions enhances competence and readiness. This improves collective performance and mission outcomes.
3. Modern recruitment: A three-pronged approach builds brand image, expands outreach, and eases procedures. It aligns with aspirations of the younger generation and provides clear pathways to service.

Why is an Atmanirbhar Navy crucial for India?

1. Regional posture: As “first responder” and “preferred security partner” in the IOR, the Navy advances SAGAR by enhancing security, building partners’ capacities, and promoting cooperation. IPMDA in the IOR through IFC-IOR will share MDA for regional surveillance.
2. Deterrence &competition: The Navy must deter war and win decisively if required, while prevailing in daily competition. Chinese carrier developments are closely monitored, with concepts and capability plans refined against evolving threats.
3. Carrier-led projection: Carrier Battle Groups remain central to operations. They deliver unmatched mobility, flexibility, and a wide mission set at sea and ashore. This necessity has been underscored by the Standing Committee on Defence.
4. Scaled force goals: India targets over 200 warships and submarines by 2035, potentially 230 by 2037. A modern, large Navy will remain a critical instrument of national power in a complex geo-strategic environment.

Question for practice:

Discuss why an Atmanirbhar Navy by 2047 is crucial for India’s maritime security and economic growth.