Indian Navy Prepared to Take Preemptive Action Against Pakistan if Necessary, States Naval Chief
Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh Tripathi issued a stern warning to Pakistan on Tuesday, emphasizing the Indian Navy's readiness to initiate action if necessary. This statement comes in light of lessons learned from Operation Sindoor.
During a ceremony in Visakhapatnam for the commissioning of two advanced Project 17A multi-mission stealth frigates, INS Udaygiri and INS Himgiri, Admiral Tripathi highlighted the Navy's enhanced deterrence capabilities and its vital role in securing India's maritime interests.
“If need arises again, Navy may do the opening”
Admiral Tripathi remarked on the Indian Navy's capacity to project formidable force at sea, which serves as a deterrent to adversaries. He referenced Operation Sindoor, noting that the Navy's rapid deployment and assertive stance effectively restrained the Pakistan Navy, leading them to seek a cessation of hostilities.
Reiterating Defence Minister Rajnath Singh's earlier assurances aboard the INS Vikrant, Admiral Tripathi stated:
“Sir, you had assured us that Operation Sindoor has not ended, and if the need arises again, there is a probability that the opening will be done by the Indian Navy.”
Rajnath Singh hails Navy’s growing might
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, who attended the event, praised the Navy's effective role in Operation Sindoor and recognized the commissioning of INS Udaygiri and INS Himgiri as transformative for maritime operations.
“These warships represent India's burgeoning naval prowess and our readiness to act decisively when national security is at risk. Both vessels are domestically constructed, featuring long-range surface-to-surface missiles, supersonic BrahMos, indigenous rocket and torpedo launchers, combat management systems, and advanced fire-control systems,” he stated.
Singh further remarked that granting the Navy a more prominent role in Sindoor could have sent a markedly different message, underscoring confidence in its capabilities.
Indigenous milestone & strategic boost
The simultaneous induction of INS Udaygiri, built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited, and INS Himgiri, constructed by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers in Kolkata, marks a significant milestone, with two major warships from different Indian shipyards entering service together.
The frigates will join the Eastern Fleet, bolstering India's maritime power in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) and highlighting the strategic importance of the eastern coastline.
Context: Operation Sindoor’s legacy
Operation Sindoor, conducted from May 7–10, 2025, demonstrated remarkable tri-service coordination and inflicted substantial damage on Pakistan by targeting terror infrastructure and neutralizing enemy air and naval units. Admiral Tripathi's comments reflect the Navy's preparedness for swift action in potential future scenarios, showcasing India's evolving maritime strategy as a net security provider in the IOR.
