India is moving towards a more comprehensive maritime security framework, with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasising the need to protect critical maritime infrastructure alongside traditional shipping routes. Addressing the Indo-Pacific Regional Dialogue (IPRD) 2026 in New Delhi on November 4, Singh highlighted the growing complexity of threats facing the maritime domain and called for stronger surveillance and coordinated security measures.
The Defence Minister stated that maritime security can no longer be limited to safeguarding commercial vessels and major shipping lanes. Ports, offshore energy installations, underwater communication cables and other strategically important assets also require effective protection. These facilities play a significant role in supporting international trade, energy supplies and digital connectivity, making their security increasingly important for national and regional stability.
Singh also drew attention to the importance of undersea fibre-optic cable networks, which carry more than 95 per cent of international internet traffic and financial transactions, according to the report. Any disruption to these networks could affect communication systems, financial services and essential digital infrastructure across multiple countries.
He highlighted that maritime threats are changing and increasingly extend beyond conventional military activities. Piracy, human and goods trafficking, illegal fishing, cyberattacks and natural disasters present additional challenges for countries operating across the Indian Ocean and wider Indo-Pacific region. Responding to these risks requires continuous maritime monitoring, improved information-sharing and stronger coordination between relevant agencies.
The Defence Minister’s remarks underline the growing importance of Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA), which involves collecting and analysing information about activities across maritime areas to identify potential threats. Effective monitoring of shipping movements, underwater infrastructure and offshore installations can help authorities detect suspicious activities and respond to emerging security challenges.
India has been strengthening its maritime surveillance capabilities through coastal radar networks, satellite-based monitoring, underwater sensors and unmanned aerial vehicles. These technologies support the Indian Navy’s efforts to improve awareness across strategically important maritime areas and strengthen security in the Indian Ocean Region.
The broader approach also reflects India’s interest in maintaining freedom of navigation and protecting essential maritime infrastructure against emerging conventional and non-conventional threats. As the Indo-Pacific becomes increasingly important for global commerce and strategic competition, cooperation among regional countries will remain essential for maintaining a stable maritime environment.
Singh’s address at IPRD 2026 reinforces India’s focus on developing an integrated maritime security architecture that protects not only vessels and sea lanes but also the critical infrastructure supporting the region’s economic and strategic interests.