India is preparing a massive naval modernization drive with plans to build 16 indigenous warships worth nearly ₹1 lakh crore (around $12 billion) under Project-15C, Project-17B, and Project-18A. The ambitious program includes next-generation guided missile destroyers, stealth frigates, and advanced surface combatants, designed to significantly enhance the Indian Navy’s long-range strike, air defence, anti-submarine warfare, and maritime surveillance capabilities.
The expansion comes amid China’s rapidly growing naval presence in the Indian Ocean Region and the broader Indo-Pacific, where Beijing has increased deployments of warships, submarines, and surveillance vessels while expanding strategic infrastructure under its “String of Pearls” strategy. Once completed, the new fleet is expected to strengthen India’s ability to safeguard critical sea lanes, protect carrier battle groups, secure maritime trade routes, and reinforce its strategic deterrence across the region.
The project will also boost India’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) initiative, with leading domestic shipyards such as Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) and Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE) expected to play a key role in construction. While the projects are currently in the planning phase and await final government approval, they are expected to significantly strengthen India’s position as a leading maritime power in the Indo-Pacific.
