Vice Admiral Vivek Dahiya Takes Helm as Director General of Indian Navy's Project Seabird

On August 1, 2026, Vice Admiral Vivek Dahiya, NM, assumed the role of Director General Project Seabird (DGPS), taking on one of the Indian Navy's major infrastructure and maritime development projects.

Vice Admiral Dahiya, an alumnus of the Naval Academy in Goa, the Joint Services Command and Staff College in Shrivenham, UK, and the Naval War College in Goa, brings a wealth of operational, command, and strategic experience to his new position.

Throughout his notable naval career, Vice Admiral Dahiya has held numerous key command and staff roles both at sea and on land. His commands at sea included the Kora-class missile corvette INS Karmuk and the Kolkata-class guided missile destroyer INS Chennai, where he showcased exceptional operational leadership in various maritime missions.

After his promotion to Flag Rank, Vice Admiral Dahiya served as the Assistant Chief of Naval Staff (Staff Requirements) at Naval Headquarters in New Delhi, significantly contributing to capability planning and force development. Before his current appointment, he led the Western Fleet, the Indian Navy's foremost combat fleet based in Mumbai, managing frontline operational deployments and maritime security operations.

In his capacity as Director General Project Seabird, Vice Admiral Dahiya will oversee the implementation and expansion of one of India's most substantial naval infrastructure projects, focused on developing the Karwar Naval Base in Karnataka. Project Seabird is a pivotal element of the Indian Navy's long-term maritime strategy, designed to establish a world-class naval base that can accommodate aircraft carriers, submarines, frontline warships, and advanced logistics facilities.

The project is crucial for extending the Indian Navy's operational reach and readiness in the Indian Ocean Region, while alleviating congestion at existing naval bases. Its ongoing development is anticipated to greatly enhance India's maritime security framework and support future fleet expansion.

Vice Admiral Vivek Dahiya's appointment underscores the Indian Navy's focus on seasoned operational leadership to drive its ambitious infrastructure program. His vast command experience and strategic acumen are expected to expedite the development of Project Seabird, bolstering India's ambition of establishing a modern, self-reliant, and future-ready maritime force.