
Puri, Odisha – On the occasion of Navy Day 2024, Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi emphasized the Indian Navy’s commitment to becoming a stronger, more modern, and self-reliant force. Addressing the Navy’s vision for the next decade, Admiral Tripathi highlighted advancements in technology, fleet modernization, and the adoption of unmanned systems.
“We are moving towards a force that is more powerful and lethal, leveraging rapidly evolving technology,” Admiral Tripathi stated. He underlined the importance of incorporating a suitable mix of manned and unmanned systems to enhance efficiency and reduce risks. “Unmanned systems are often cost-effective and eliminate the risk to human life, but critical decision-making will always require human involvement.”
The Admiral shared ambitious plans to modernize the Navy’s fleet. By 2034, the average tonnage of surface ships is expected to increase to 6,000 tonnes. Additionally, the Navy aims to reduce the age of its fleet, ensuring that only 20% of ships are over 15 years old, compared to the current 55%.
“This modernization is essential for maintaining our strength. It’s not just about the platforms but also about the advanced technology that goes into them. This is a continuous process to extract the best from what is available,” he added.
Admiral Tripathi reiterated the Navy’s commitment to becoming an entirely Atmanirbhar (self-reliant) force by 2047, aligning with India’s broader vision for independence in defense production.
The Navy Day celebrations in Puri also showcased the operational prowess and technological advancements of the Indian Navy, highlighting its role in safeguarding the nation’s maritime interests.