Rising Tide: India's Assertive Stance in the Face of Chinese Incursions

 

India's Response to Chinese Provocations in the Indian Ocean

Escalating Tensions in the Indian Ocean Region

Since 2019, tensions between India and China have escalated in the Indian Ocean region due to Chinese provocations. China has been deploying what it labels as ocean research vessels but are in reality spy ships aimed at surveilling Indian assets. Recently, Beijing has become more assertive, sending four spy ships into the Indian Ocean, two of which are currently stationed in the Bay of Bengal.

India's Response: RV Samudra Ratnakar

In response to Chinese provocations, India has deployed its own research vessel, the RV Samudra Ratnakar, positioned strategically between the two Chinese survey ships off India's eastern coast. The RV Samudra Ratnakar, operated by the Geological Survey of India, is a state-of-the-art oceanographic research vessel equipped with advanced scientific instruments.

• The ship, built by Hyundai Heavy Industries in South Korea, measures 103 meters in length.
• It can accommodate up to 73 personnel, including 25 geoscientists.
• Capable of continuous sailing for 45 days, it is designed for extended missions.

Strategic Significance of RV Samudra Ratnakar

The deployment of RV Samudra Ratnakar is significant in the context of Chinese military presence in the region, particularly the Yuan Wang class ships, which are suspected of tracking ballistic missiles. India's response underscores its concerns regarding China's intentions in the Indian Ocean.

India's Naval Expansion: INS Baaz

India's naval expansion extends beyond research vessels. The recent visit of a Calvari class Scorpan submarine to INS Baaz marks a significant milestone. INS Baaz, located near Campbell Bay in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, overlooks the strategically vital Strait of Malacca, connecting the Indian Ocean with the South China Sea.

• INS Baaz is the southernmost naval air station of the Indian armed forces.
• Its location near the Strait of Malacca holds strategic and economic importance, particularly in countering Chinese ambitions in the region.

Strengthening Naval Capabilities

India's efforts to strengthen its naval capabilities are evident through various initiatives:

• Expansion of the runway at INS Baaz to accommodate maritime surveillance planes.
• Demonstration of operational readiness through exercises, including the recent display of eight submarines operating together in the Arabian Sea.
• Continuous naval operations to counter threats such as anti-drone, anti-missile, and anti-piracy attacks in the Gulf of Aden, Arabian Sea, and Red Sea.

India as a Leading Security Provider

Despite China's aggressive expansion in the Indian Ocean, India remains steadfast in its commitment to challenging Chinese dominance. While India's submarine fleet may not match up to China's, its proactive measures highlight India's role as the region's leading security provider.

• India's response to increasing piracy attempts and threats to maritime security demonstrates its commitment to stability in the Indian Ocean region.
• The deployment of a significant number of operational submarines reflects India's resolve to maintain its dominant position in the maritime domain.

Conclusion

As tensions between India and China continue to simmer in the Indian Ocean, India's proactive stance underscores its determination to safeguard its interests and maintain regional stability. Through strategic deployments and naval expansions, India asserts itself as a formidable force in the face of Chinese provocations, ensuring the security of vital sea lanes and upholding its status as a leading maritime power in the region.