MARITIME SECURITY
Bangladesh key part of India's SAGAR doctrine, Indo-Pacific vision: Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra
Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra has emphasized the significance of Bangladesh in India's strategic plans for regional cooperation and security. He stated that Bangladesh is crucial for India's SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) doctrine and its vision for the Indo-Pacific region. The renewal of the MoU on maritime cooperation and blue economy aims to develop India's ocean-based blue economy and maritime cooperation.
Aerial drone likely launched by Yemen's Houthi rebels hits ship in the Red Sea
Yemen's Houthi rebels targeted a commercial ship in the Gulf of Aden, causing no damage, in a recent escalation of their attacks on shipping lanes amid the Israel-Hamas conflict. The vessel reported three explosions nearby but was not hit. The Houthis, who control Yemen's capital, claimed responsibility, identifying the target as the Transworld Navigator. The U.S. military destroyed three Houthi drone boats in the Red Sea and ordered the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower to return home after an extended deployment. The USS Theodore Roosevelt will replace it after exercises in the Indo-Pacific.
India boosts defense ties with Bangladesh as it tries to become a counterweight to China
India and Bangladesh strengthened defense ties, signing agreements to enhance cooperation in maritime security, ocean economy, space, and telecommunication sectors. Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed Bangladesh's inclusion in the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative, underscoring India's commitment to regional collaboration. Amidst close ties with China, Bangladesh seeks to balance relationships with India and the US. Both countries aim to boost river water sharing, energy cooperation, and infrastructure development through Indian investments. Bilateral trade between India and Bangladesh reached $15.9 billion in the financial year 2022-23, with India exporting cotton, vehicles, and electronics, and importing cereals and cement.
India, Sri Lanka commission maritime rescue centre to boost security ties
Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar unveiled the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) in Sri Lanka under a $6 million grant from India to boost maritime security in India's southern neighbourhood. They also inaugurated 106 houses in Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, and Matale under the Indian Housing Project.
Ship attacked by Yemen's Houthi rebels in fatal assault sinks in Red Sea in their second sinking
A bulk carrier sank in the Red Sea days after an attack by Yemen's Houthi rebels, who are believed to have killed one mariner on board. The sinking of the Tutor marks an escalation in the Houthis' campaign targeting Red Sea shipping, despite ongoing U.S.-led efforts to halt the attacks. The attack, using drone boats, highlights the ongoing conflict in the region. The shipping industry has condemned the attacks, calling for them to stop immediately. Meanwhile, the Houthis claim that U.S.-led airstrikes targeted areas in Yemen under rebel control.
China competes for influence in the South Pacific
The South Pacific, dotted with small and vulnerable island states, has become a battleground for influence between China and the traditional benefactors of Australia, New Zealand, and the USA.
- Go To Page 1
Indian Navy's indigenous stealth frigate INS Shivalik arrives in Japan to take part in 'JIMEX 24'
INS Shivalik and J S Yugiri are actively participating in the eighth edition of the bilateral Japan-India maritime exercise, JIMEX 24, showcasing mutual cooperation and commitment to maritime security in the Indo-Pacific region.
China Coast Guard rules the waves and waives the rules
China intimidated Taiwan yet again with its large-scale Joint Sword-2024A exercise on 23-24 May. This saw People's Liberation Army (PLA) and CCG assets surround Taiwan and its outlying islands, underscoring the threat of a future Chinese quarantine or blockade of Taiwan.
US and India strengthen military ties, eye deeper collaboration
Top American and Indian defense officials have highlighted the growing importance of the US-India military partnership, especially in the Indo-Pacific region. At the 'Partners in Progress' symposium in Bengaluru, Rear Admiral Nirbhay Bapna of the Indian Navy praised the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two nations. He emphasized their joint commitment to ensuring peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific through enhanced information sharing and maritime awareness. US Defense Attaché to India Rear Admiral Michael Baker also stressed the significant role of the US-India defense partnership in global peace and security.
Amid run-ins with Philippines, China says US provoking arms race in South China Sea
"At present, the biggest security challenge in the South China Sea comes from outside the region," Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong said in comments published by his ministry, after attending a meeting on East Asian cooperation in Laos.
Japan, US, South Korean coast guards hold 1st joint drill off Japan's coast as China concerns rise
Japanese, US, and South Korean coast guard vessels conducted their first joint drill off Japan's coast, aimed at strengthening maritime ties in response to China's increased assertiveness in territorial claims. The drill, which involved patrol vessels and helicopters, focused on search and rescue operations. The countries agreed last August to enhance security cooperation in the Indo-Pacific. Japan has bolstered defenses in southwestern Japan in response to Chinese assertiveness, particularly around Taiwan.
India and Oman strengthen maritime defence relations through Staff Talks
The 6th edition of Staff Talks between the Indian Navy and the Royal Navy of Oman took place from June 4 to 5 in New Delhi, as announced by the Ministry of Defence. The discussions aimed to enhance the defense relations between India and Oman in the maritime domain. The talks were led by Cmde Jasim Mohammed Ali Al Balushi from RNO and Cmde Manmeet Singh Khurana from India. Topics included maritime security challenges, interoperability, operational collaboration, and training. Oman is a key partner for India in the Gulf region, and these talks help strengthen naval cooperation between the two countries.
Sweden, Norway ink long-term security deals with Ukraine
Zelenskyy visited Stockholm as Western nations discuss whether to let Kyiv use weapons provided by them to strike targets inside Russia. The security deals with Sweden and Norway bring to 15 the number of agreements Kyiv has signed with Western nations.
India’s expanding defence ties in Indo-Pacific region to increase Sino-Indian competition
The International Institute of Strategic Studies (IISS) highlighted India's expanding defence role and partnerships in the Indo-Pacific region, which could further intensify the competitive nature of India-China relations. India's focus on being a preferred security partner through defence partnerships, combined exercises, and arms transfers is increasing its regional presence and influence, countering Beijing's influence. The report noted that India's defence engagement is primarily focused on the Indian Ocean region but is expanding to Southeast Asia and the Pacific Ocean.
India is Australia’s top-tier security partner, says High Commissioner Green
Highlighting India's capabilities in producing electric vehicles and solar panels at scale, he noted, "India is a key part of our diversification agenda and supply chain resilience." This collaboration is particularly crucial as both countries aim to deal with supply chain disruptions and promote sustainable energy solutions. The High Commissioner lauded the rapid growth in India-Australia relations over the past five years, describing it as the "fastest build-up of one of our big relations in history."
Philippines opens coast guard post after China build-up
The Philippines opens a coast guard post in the far north to enhance security amid China's military build-up near Taiwan. The outpost aims to gather maritime data and intelligence to address threats like illicit trade and foreign intrusions.
Indian Navy warships complete Manila visit as part of operational deployment to South China Sea
Indian Navy ships INS Delhi, INS Shakti, and INS Kiltan completed their visit to Manila, Philippines as part of the Operational Deployment of the Indian Navy's Eastern Fleet to the South China Sea, emphasizing India's commitment to peace and stability in the region.
Remain focused on being combat ready at all times: Navy chief to officers
Indian Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi has emphasized the need for the Navy to remain combat-ready to protect national maritime interests, especially in light of China's increased presence in the Indian Ocean and the volatile situation in the Red Sea. He highlighted the Navy's commitment to self-reliance and the importance of finding in-house solutions and embracing new technologies to address challenges in the maritime domain. The Navy has been actively providing assistance to cargo vessels under attack in the Red Sea, where Houthi militants have targeted ships to pressure Israel.
Yemen's Houthi rebels launch a missile that strikes an oil tanker in the Red Sea, US military says
Yemen's Houthi rebels targeted the Panama-flagged, Greek-owned oil tanker in the Red Sea amid conflicts over the Israel-Hamas war. They disrupted trade routes to China and Russia, causing a fire aboard the Wind. The rebels faced a US-led airstrike campaign in Yemen's Marib province.
Philippines to buy 5 Japan-made coast guard ships in $400 mn deal
The Philippines agrees to buy five coast guard patrol ships from Japan to counter Chinese pressure in the South China Sea. Tokyo will provide a loan for the vessels to enhance maritime operations of the Philippine Coast Guard. The deal signifies the strengthening ties between the two countries amid regional security challenges.
China plans to float nuclear reactors in disputed South China Sea, analysts see it 'risky for environment'
China's development of marine nuclear power platforms in the South China Sea raises concerns for regional stability and security. The US warns of the risks posed by China's plans to power disputed islands with floating reactors. Analysts highlight the potential for radiation leaks, weaponization, and security implications in the region.
US military says first aid shipment has been sent across newly built pier into Gaza Strip
Trucks carrying vital aid for Gaza arrived via a U.S. floating pier amid Israeli restrictions, marking the start of an operation aiming to scale up to 150 truckloads daily. The U.S. military seeks to deliver humanitarian aid to Palestinians in Gaza, as fuel shortages and logistical challenges persist. The U.N. emphasizes the urgent need for fuel to ensure aid reaches those in need.
US military says Gaza Strip pier project is completed, aid to soon flow as Israel-Hamas war rages on
The US military completed the installation of a floating pier off the coast of Gaza, enabling the delivery of humanitarian aid amidst the Israel-Hamas conflict. Aid will be transported via sea route to a secure area on land for distribution. The initiative aims to alleviate food shortages and medical needs in the besieged enclave.
Philippines sends ships to disputed atoll where China building 'artificial island'
Philippines monitors China's activities in the South China Sea, focusing on small-scale reclamation at Sabina Shoal. National security adviser calls for expelling Chinese diplomats. Permanent Court of Arbitration's ruling challenges China's claims.
Three Indian naval ships visit Singapore from May 6-9
INS Delhi, INS Shakti and INS Kiltan visited Singapore from May 6-9, aimed at undertaking bilateral engagements and discuss areas of mutual interest and cooperation, and reaffirming the commitment to enhance maritime security and stability in the region, according to an official statement shared by the Navy spokesperson.
India, Indonesia resolve to expand defence ties
India and Indonesia strengthen defence ties, emphasizing maritime security and military equipment production. Recent meetings and visits aim to enhance cooperation in defence industry, research, and joint production capabilities.
Navy should remain operationally ready to deter adversaries: Navy chief Admiral Tripathi
Admiral Dinesh Kumar Tripathi, the newly appointed Chief of the Naval Staff, emphasized the need for the Indian Navy to maintain operational readiness to deter adversaries at sea. He highlighted the challenges in strategic waterways like the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, particularly with Houthi militants targeting merchant ships. Admiral Tripathi also pledged to enhance self-reliance and focus on human resource issues within the Navy, aiming to contribute to a developed India. His career spans nearly 39 years, marked by distinguished service and various leadership roles.
Maritime Security: Indian Coast Guard seizes 173 kg of drugs in anti-narcotics operation
Indian Coast Guard and ATS Gujarat conducted a successful joint operation, intercepting an Indian fishing boat at sea and seizing 173 kg of narcotics. This operation follows other recent interceptions, including the seizure of a Pakistani fishing boat with 86 kg of drugs, highlighting ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking in the region.
CDS asks military, DRDO to work with startups to get cutting-edge space tech to reduce gap with adversaries
In an effort to boost collaboration between the Indian space and defence sectors, Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan today asked the three defence forces and DRDO to engage with the Space industry and startups to develop cutting-edge technology to reduce the gap with the adversaries.
Load More
