India Keeps a Close Watch as China Expands Presence in Indian Ocean: Navy Chief
China's increasing footprint in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) over the past few decades has been a subject of growing concern. With six to eight warships from the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) operating in the region at any given time, its presence is undeniable. However, according to Indian Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, India is fully aware of every movement in its maritime domain, ensuring that Beijing does not gain access to areas where it is not welcome.
Speaking at The Chanakya Dialogues conclave, Admiral Tripathi emphasized that China has not only expanded its reach in the oceans but also on land. The PLAN, now the largest navy in the world by numbers, maintains a strong presence in the IOR despite the decline of piracy in the region. Yet, India has an extensive maritime domain awareness system that enables it to track and monitor every vessel—both manned and unmanned—through advanced space-based surveillance and collaboration with international agencies.
"Knowing who goes where is more than half the battle won," the Navy chief said, underscoring India’s ability to keep a check on China's movements. He pointed out that Beijing initially justified its presence in the IOR under the pretext of anti-piracy operations, but with piracy no longer a significant threat, Chinese vessels—including research and satellite tracking ships—continue to operate in the region for other undisclosed purposes. These vessels are often involved in deep-sea fishing and other activities that raise security concerns.
While India cannot directly stop China's maritime activities outside its own areas of interest, Admiral Tripathi made it clear that New Delhi has taken effective measures to prevent unwanted Chinese intrusions. "We have not allowed them to come anywhere where we don’t want them to come," he asserted.
The Navy chief also highlighted the growing defense cooperation between China and Pakistan, with Beijing supplying Islamabad with warships, submarines, and satellite tracking ships for over two decades. The recent deal for eight Chinese submarines further strengthens Pakistan’s naval capabilities, adding another layer of complexity to India's maritime security.
India is fully prepared to counter any potential threats emerging from this collaboration, Admiral Tripathi assured. "We are devising means and measures to ensure that no harm comes to us due to this maritime collusion between China and Pakistan."
Despite China's growing presence, India remains vigilant, well-prepared, and resolute in safeguarding its maritime interests in the Indian Ocean Region.
