New Delhi, 7 July 2025 — India’s Navy is awaiting pivotal approval for a ₹2.4 lakh crore expansion plan that includes 17 warships and nine submarines, on top of 61 vessels already under construction. The plan targets major fleet upgrades, reinforcing maritime readiness amid growing regional naval competition.
Major Programme & Fleet Renewal Drive
The project includes Project 17B: seven next‑generation frigates and two multi‑purpose vessels at ₹70,000 crore. Additionally, Project 75‑I seeks six modern submarines for ₹70,000 crore. Three more Scorpene‑class submarines under Project 75 add‑ons cost ₹36,000 crore, and eight Next‑Gen Corvettes also total ₹36,000 crore. These initiatives sum to over ₹2.4 lakh crore, awaiting final cost negotiations and approval.
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Fleet Size, Replacement Needs & Strategic Imperatives
China’s PLA Navy now operates approximately 355 vessels, while India fields just over 130. Several Indian Navy submarines are outdated, and Delhi‑class destroyers commissioned in 1997 are now 25+ years old. Their replacements must be approved now to prevent capability gaps, given shipbuilding timelines of 7–8 years.
The Navy aims to expand to a 175‑ship fleet by 2035, covering a strategic imperative to counter regional naval threats.
Strategic Context & Escalating Regional Naval Power
India’s ageing vessels limit maritime deterrence and domain control. Modern platforms are essential to counter China’s expanding presence in the Indian Ocean. The expanded fleet will support robust defence posture, including anti‑submarine warfare and surface combat readiness.
