New Delhi: The Indian Navy has extended the timeline for its Maritime Capability Perspective Plan (MCPP) to 2032, citing budgetary constraints and operational challenges in meeting original targets despite significant improvements in shipbuilding efficiency.
Vice Admiral Sameer Saxena, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Southern Naval Command, described the MCPP as an aspirational blueprint developed over a year to project India’s naval force structure needs a decade ahead. He highlighted that shipbuilding has accelerated substantially, with new vessels emerging every 40 days, driven by initiatives like Atmanirbhar Bharat, MSME support, and enhanced shipyard capabilities.
However, fiscal pressures across national priorities have made it difficult to achieve all planned targets, prompting a realistic extension while the Navy continues to review long-term strategies. Current indigenisation progress stands at 90% for float components, 60% for movement systems, and 50% for attack segments, with a goal of full self-reliance by 2047.
Plans for a second indigenous aircraft carrier remain under discussion at the highest levels, though no formal approval has been granted. Presently, the Navy operates 138 ships and 264 aircraft, supported by 51 vessels under construction, with requirements for 65 more ships and nine submarines acknowledged for future operational readiness.
In the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), India continues to maintain strategic leadership, remaining vigilant against opaque operational activity while serving as a preferred security and training partner for regional nations.
The Navy has also strengthened its humanitarian and diplomatic role, providing aid during disasters, conducting personnel training, and preparing for events like the International Fleet Review in Visakhapatnam, 2026, expected to include 60–70 countries, alongside the ION Conference and Conclave of Chiefs.
Strategic expansion continues in Lakshadweep with a new naval detachment at Bitra, complementing existing presence at Minicoy and Agatti, while balancing environmental preservation.
This extended MCPP aligns with broader maritime demonstrations, including the upcoming Navy Day operational display at Shangumugham Beach, featuring INS Vikrant, warships, submarines, and aircraft under the presence of President Droupadi Murmu, underscoring India’s sustained maritime strength and strategic readiness.
