In News:

• Deal for 26 Rafale-M jets nearing completion, with final formalities expected to be completed by January 2025.
  • These jets are designed for naval operations and will be deployed on INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya.
  • Rafale-M Features: Multi-role, advanced avionics, AESA radar, and armaments like Meteor, MICA, SCALP, EXOCET.
• Three Scorpene Submarines: Additional three Scorpene-class submarines to be procured from France.
  • These are part of a repeat order to Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), with five of the earlier six already inducted into service.

Nuclear Capabilities:

• INS Arighaat: Successfully fired a Submarine-Launched Ballistic Missile (SLBM), marking a significant milestone for India's nuclear deterrence.
• Indigenous Nuclear Attack Submarine (SSN): India’s first indigenous SSN expected by 2036-37.

Strategic Maritime Engagement:

• Indian Ocean Region (IOR): Active monitoring of maritime activities, especially of China's PLA Navy and Chinese research vessels.
• Pakistan Navy Expansion: Acknowledged Pakistan’s efforts to become a 50-ship Navy, including the acquisition of 8 Chinese submarines. Indian Navy is adapting its plans to address this.

Nuclear Submarine Program (SSBN):

• INS Arihant: Conducted multiple deterrence patrols.
• INS Arighaat: Ongoing trials including the recent K4 SLBM test, with a range of 3,500 km.

Naval Vision 2047:

• Navy Chief released Vision 2047 document, outlining the future direction and growth of the Indian Navy.

Bilateral and Multilateral Engagements:

• Participation in various bilateral and multilateral exercises, including RIMPAC 2024 (Hawaii) and Russian Federation Navy’s Raising Day (St. Petersburg).