High-level discussions are actively underway regarding the establishment of integrated theatre commands for the Indian armed forces, a senior naval commander revealed on Tuesday. Vice Admiral Sameer Saxena, the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Southern Naval Command, stated that talks led by the Chief of Defence Staff and the Chief of Staff Committee are progressing at the top echelons of the military.
Joint Warfare and the Path to Integration
Speaking to reporters on the eve of the Navy Day Operational Demonstration 2025, which will feature 19 warships, one submarine, and 32 aircraft including fighter jets, Saxena emphasized that modern warfare is a joint effort. He noted that integration among the Army, Navy, and Air Force is already in motion as a necessary precursor to forming the theatre commands.
"Today, in most command headquarters, we have cross-appointments. In the naval command, we have Air Force and Army officers," Saxena explained. He highlighted that recognizing each service's strengths and understanding their working environments is a process already in progress. For instance, INS Hamla serves as a joint training school for personnel from all three services, consolidating activities that were once conducted separately.
Naval Expansion and Strategic Concerns
The Vice Admiral addressed specific plans for the Navy's growth, particularly in southern India. While confirming that the defence ministry is planning an integrated maritime theatre command with the Navy as the lead in Thiruvananthapuram, he did not divulge details about land requirements. He indicated that the Navy's presence in the city would increase over time, contingent on future land acquisition.
Regarding the strategically vital Lakshadweep islands, Saxena stated the Navy's intention to install weapons systems while being mindful of the fragile ecosystem. The Navy already maintains a presence in Minicoy, Kavaratti, and Agatti, and future assets deployed there are envisioned to be joint in nature.
On security matters, Saxena pointed out the Indian Navy's observation of Chinese presence in the Arabian Sea, including research vessels, submarines, and surveillance platforms. "We have no problem with their presence but the lack of transparency is a concern. Their contribution to the collective efforts for global commons is opaque," he stated, affirming that the Navy is vigilant and will protect India's maritime interests.
Humanitarian Role and Modernization Plans
Vice Admiral Saxena also underscored the Indian Navy's role as a preferred partner for training, security, and humanitarian assistance. He cited the example of INS Vikrant providing disaster relief in Sri Lanka and mentioned that six to seven nations will participate in a fleet review in Visakhapatnam in February 2025, highlighting India's leadership in the Indian Ocean Region.
In the realm of maritime security, the Navy has been active in combating piracy in the west Arabian Sea, with its ships conducting about 1,000 boarding operations and saving 520 lives. On the modernization front, Saxena revealed that the Navy is expanding its fleet by adding corvettes and enhancing subsurface capabilities. He noted that the deadline for the Navy's long-term Maritime Capability Perspective Plan has been extended to 2032.
