Context-

China's increasing naval presence in the Indian Ocean poses significant strategic challenges to regional powers, particularly India. Since the deployment of its flotilla for anti-piracy operations in 2009, China has steadily expanded its maritime footprint, citing protection of maritime interests and trade as primary justifications. This expansion includes the establishment of a logistics base in Djibouti and regular deployments of submarines and research vessels in the region.

China Presence in Indian ocean

• Naval Deployments and Strategic Justifications : China's initial deployment of a Shang-class nuclear attack submarine in 2013 marked a significant milestone, indicating a shift towards sustained submarine operations in the Indian Ocean. Subsequent deployments have underscored China's intent to secure sea lanes critical to its energy security and maritime trade routes.
• Strategic Exercises and Collaborations : Participation in joint exercises like 'Sea Guardian 3' with Pakistan's Navy highlights China's operational capabilities and strategic partnerships in the region. Such exercises not only bolster China's naval proficiency but also strengthen diplomatic ties with regional allies.
• Oceanographic Research and Military Integration : China's dual-use approach to oceanographic research, facilitated by state-affiliated vessels, raises concerns about its military implications. Research missions not only advance civilian scientific goals but also contribute to China's military intelligence by enhancing its underwater domain awareness (UDA) capabilities.
• Submarine Operations and Navigational Challenges : Navigating the Indian Ocean presents formidable challenges for Chinese submarines, including shallow straits and sparse hydrographic data. These operational constraints necessitate innovative approaches such as seabed mapping and support vessel accompaniment to facilitate submerged transit.

India's Strategic Responses

• Enhancing Underwater Domain Awareness (UDA) : India's response to China's submarine deployments includes enhancing UDA through a network of seabed sensors, satellite surveillance, and unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs). Collaborations with international partners like the United States, Japan, and Australia are crucial for accessing advanced surveillance technologies and improving maritime monitoring capabilities.
• Strengthening Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA) : Complementing UDA efforts, India continues to strengthen MDA by upgrading existing capabilities and leveraging collaborations under the Information Fusion Centre–Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR). Real-time situational awareness and data sharing initiatives are pivotal in countering China's naval activities.
• Naval Capability Expansion : The expansion and modernization of the Indian Navy's fleet is essential for maintaining a robust presence in the Indian Ocean. Indigenous shipbuilding capabilities and the deployment of long-endurance autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) and remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) are critical for enhancing underwater surveillance capabilities.
• Strategic Partnerships and Regional Cooperation : India's strategic partnerships, including the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad), play a crucial role in balancing China's influence. Joint naval exercises, intelligence sharing, and logistical support agreements with regional partners strengthen India's operational reach and capabilities in countering adversarial naval activities.
• Development of Forward Operating Bases (FOBs) : Establishing FOBs in strategic locations like the Andaman and Nicobar Islands enhances India's ability to monitor and respond to Chinese naval movements. These bases serve as logistical hubs and enable rapid deployment, thereby bolstering India's maritime security posture.

• Leveraging Technology and Innovation : Investments in cutting-edge technologies such as AI, machine learning, and big data analytics are pivotal for enhancing India's maritime surveillance capabilities. Integrating these technologies into decision-making processes strengthens India's strategic advantage in maritime operations.
• Comprehensive Strategic Approach : India's multifaceted approach to countering China's naval expansion in the Indian Ocean combines military preparedness, diplomatic engagements, and technological advancements. By prioritizing regional stability and safeguarding its strategic interests, India aims to maintain its position as a dominant maritime power in the Indo-Pacific region.

Conclusion

China's assertive naval presence in the Indian Ocean necessitates a proactive and integrated response from India. Through continuous enhancement of naval capabilities, strategic collaborations with international and regional partners, and leveraging advanced technologies, India seeks to safeguard its maritime interests and uphold regional stability. By adopting a comprehensive strategy encompassing military, diplomatic, and technological measures, India aims to effectively mitigate the challenges posed by China's naval expansion in the Indian Ocean Region.

Source- The Hindu