At the Raisina Dialogue 2025, Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi, Chief of the Indian Navy, underscored the urgent need for self-reliance in defence technology to counter evolving maritime threats. Addressing a panel on global security and trade risks, he highlighted how both state and non-state actors are leveraging emerging technologies, posing new challenges for national security.
“We have to have self-reliance, especially in niche defence technology,” Admiral Tripathi stressed, emphasizing India’s commitment to strengthening its indigenous defence capabilities. He warned that non-state actors often exploit commercially available innovations faster than governments due to fewer regulatory constraints. “In this game, unfortunately, even the non-state actors are equally adept, and sometimes they can be faster because they don’t have to deal with rules and regulations,” he remarked.
On India’s strategic response, Admiral Tripathi highlighted the navy’s rapid modernization and future-ready approach across multiple domains. “We’re keeping a track of that and we’re moving on various domains to become future-ready,” he affirmed. He pointed to accelerated technology adoption, streamlined procurement, and enhanced manufacturing efficiency as key factors driving progress.
“I can tell you that in the last decade, there has been much improvement on technology. We have cut down on timelines in processes and procedures. And more importantly, we have cut down on timelines in assembling platforms,” he stated, citing the swift commissioning of INS Surat as a testament to India’s enhanced shipbuilding capabilities.
The admiral also praised the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, which has boosted confidence among Indian innovators. “The government’s thrust on self-reliance and Atmanirbharta has brought about a belief in the youth of the country that if they do produce certain niche technologies and offer it to the armed forces, there is greater acceptance and they will not be left hanging for want of orders,” he noted.
His remarks reinforced the crucial role of technological evolution and strategic collaboration in safeguarding India’s maritime security, as the nation adapts to the rapidly changing landscape of modern naval warfare.
