Naval Commanders’ Conference 2026 concludes; maritime strategy unveiled amid West Asia tensions
The first edition of the biannual Naval Commanders’ Conference 2026 concluded in New Delhi on Friday, with the Indian Navy reviewing its operational preparedness and unveiling a new maritime security strategy against the backdrop of evolving geopolitical tensions, particularly in West Asia.
Held from April 14 to 17 at Nausena Bhawan, the four-day conference brought together the Navy’s top leadership to deliberate on key aspects including operational readiness, logistics, infrastructure, and human resource management. The discussions also focused on the changing nature of maritime security amid ongoing global conflicts.
In his inaugural address, the Chief of the Naval Staff highlighted the increasingly complex geostrategic environment, marked by simultaneous conflicts, rising threats from non-state actors, and a weakening rules-based international order. He stressed the need for sustained combat readiness and greater adoption of emerging technologies to build a future-ready naval force.
The Navy chief also underscored India’s responsibilities in the Indian Ocean Region and called for stronger engagement with friendly foreign countries through bilateral and multilateral exercises to maintain a credible maritime presence.
During the conference, the Indian Navy released the Indian Navy Maritime Security Strategy (INMSS-2026), a key document outlining its long-term approach to safeguarding national interests in the maritime domain. The strategy aligns with broader visions such as Defence Forces Vision 2047 and Indian Navy Vision 2047, and addresses emerging challenges including disruptive technologies and evolving warfare dynamics.
Senior officials including the Chief of the Defence Staff and the Union Home Secretary also interacted with naval commanders. The CDS emphasised the need to prepare for modern warfare, which increasingly involves economic and technological dimensions, while the Home Secretary highlighted the importance of coordination between the Navy and paramilitary forces to strengthen coastal security and counter transnational threats.
On the sidelines, the Navy also hosted “Sagar Manthan,” a forum that brought together senior leadership and experts to discuss reforms in defence research and development, with a focus on enhancing industry participation in capability development.
The conference reaffirmed the Indian Navy’s focus on strengthening maritime security frameworks and adapting to emerging global challenges through strategic planning and international cooperation.
