There is a systematic alignment of asymmetric forces against nation-states, Indian Navy Chief Admiral R Hari Kumar said in an exclusive interview with CNN-News18, pointing to the Red Sea turmoil and the West Asia crisis.
The Indian Navy has been participating in anti-piracy operations since 2008 and 106 ships have been deployed 24×7 over the years to protect merchant vessels, he said.
“Now, with the current situation, attacks on Israeli-owned ships have increased significantly,” Admiral R Hari Kumar said. “Since the end of November, we have seen a rapid increase in the number of attacks.”
Yemeni rebels began attacking Red Sea shipping in November, saying they were hitting ships linked to Israel in support of Palestinians in Gaza, which has been ravaged by the Hamas-Israel war. The Houthis have since declared American and British interests as legitimate targets as well.
Waves of counter-attacks by the US and Britain have so far been unable to stop the militants.
“The attackers are trying to influence operations on land by carrying out activities at sea. They are trying to increase the cost of trade,” the Navy chief said. However, he said, no Indian flagged ship was targeted.
He said, the passage of the Anti-Piracy Act of 2022 has been a big boost for the maritime forces.
“The Indian Navy is very clear that we need to ensure that the Indian Ocean region is safe, secure and stable and we will not allow any disturbance,” Admiral Kumar said.
The diplomatic row between Male and Delhi is still ongoing over Maldivian President Mohammed Muizzu asking India to withdraw troops from the island nation.
Talking about this, the Navy Chief said, “We are training them (Maldives) and supporting them…this has been going on for a long time. There is extensive cooperation with them. With the change in stance, we will do whatever our government says.”
Amid the controversy, a Chinese ship, equipped to conduct research and survey, will dock at a Maldivian port after being given permission by the Malé government to make port calls for replenishment.
Speaking about China’s growing influence in the Indian Ocean region, Admiral Kumar said, “The oceans are free, open and inclusive, and every nation is free to pursue its legitimate interests, so long as it does not interfere with the national interests of others.” Does not violate.” , And China is looking for energy market resources for precious metals. So they’re negotiating with countries for all these things.”
He said Chinese research vessels are operating in international waters and have also been invited by some countries like Sri Lanka and Bangladesh to conduct surveys in their waters.
“Our concern has been that this should not impact our EZ or our interests. This is in our planning process,” the Navy chief said.
Admiral Kumar said during the conversation that the Navy is considering inducting Rafale aircraft by 2027-28. He also said, “We are fully associated with the self-reliant program of the Government of India.”
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