Indian Navy

The Indian Navy is the naval branch of the armed forces of India. It currently has approximately 55,000 personnel on active duty, including 5,000 members of the naval aviation branch and 2,000 marine commandos, making it the world's fifth largest navy. The Indian Navy currently operates more than 155 vessels, including the aircraft carrier INS Viraat, along with operational jet fighters.

Though the primary objective of the navy is to secure national maritime borders, India also uses its navy to enhance its international relations through joint exercises, port visits and humanitarian missions, including disaster relief. In recent years, the Indian Navy has undergone extensive modernization and expansion with an intention to increase its capabilities as a recognized blue-water navy.

Role

The Indian Navy sees several principal roles for itself:

§ In conjunction with other armed forces of the union, act to deter or defeat any threats or aggression against the territory, people or maritime interests of India, both in war and peace;

§ Project influence in India's maritime area of interest, to further the nation’s political, economic and security objectives;

§ In cooperation with the Indian Coast Guard, ensure good order and stability in India's maritime zones of responsibility.

§ Provide maritime assistance (including disaster relief) in India's maritime neighbourhood.

§ To play a key role as part of 'a pluralistic security order' for a better world.