Rajnath Singh to witness twin carrier operations at Naval conclave

India's Defence Minister, Rajnath Singh, is set to observe twin aircraft carrier operations during the inaugural day of the biannual naval commanders' conference. The operations will showcase the combat capabilities of the aircraft carriers INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya, emphasizing the Indian Navy's prowess in conducting coordinated naval maneuvers.

"They will explore avenues to enhance tri-service synergy and readiness in defence of the nation and India's national interests," Navy spokesperson Commander Vivek Madhwal said. "The last six months have witnessed significant changes in the geo-political landscape in the Indian Ocean Region due to the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict," the Navy spokesperson said. He said the strategic alignment of the nations has resulted in a spill over of the kinetic actions on land into the maritime domain.

The three-day conference will address critical security concerns, including China's expanding military presence in the Indian Ocean and the challenges posed by Houthi militants targeting cargo vessels in the Red Sea. High-ranking military officials, including Chief of Defence Staff Gen Anil Chauhan and Navy Chief Admiral R Hari Kumar, will engage in discussions to enhance tri-service synergy and readiness, underscoring India's commitment to safeguarding its national interests in the face of evolving regional security dynamics.