Indian Navy Day 2024: Theme, Importance, and New Ships & Submarines

Indian Navy Day 2024, celebrated on December 4, celebrates some of the most important milestones in the history of the Indian Navy, especially after the achievements achieved through Operation Trident during the 1971 Indo-Pak war. Operation Trident will always be remembered as a model for the Indian Navy. Its naval strength was significantly enhanced by demonstrating strategic attack operations against Karachi, who subsequently sank several Pakistani ships, including the PNS Haibar. The day is not only to commemorate past victories but also to recognize the current contribution of the Navy in safeguarding India’s maritime interests, which ensures national security.

Key Highlights of Indian Navy Day 2024

The theme for 2024 is “Empowerment through Innovation and Localization”. This theme underscores the Navy’s interest in self-reliance, particularly through technological upgrades. The Navy plans to enhance its combat capabilities while minimizing dependence on foreign military inputs.

Celebrations: The main event will be held in Puri, Odisha. President Drupadi Murmu was the chief guest. The celebration will feature the following:

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  • 24 ships and submarines participated in the maritime parade.
  • More than 40 aircraft performed an aerial display, including MiG-29K and Hawk fighter jets.
  • Marine Corps Commandos (MARCOS) demonstrate submarine warfare and amphibious landings.
  • Traditional retreat followed by drone and laser show

Public Outreach: The Indian Navy will engage the public through various activities such as social media campaigns, quizzes and open ship tours to help citizens understand the Navy’s operations and capabilities.

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Importance of Indian Navy Day

Indian Navy Day has several objectives:

  • It pays tribute to the valor and dedication of naval personnel who defend India’s long coastline and vital maritime trade routes.
  • It focuses on the maritime security aspects of maintaining peace in the Indian Ocean region.
  • It places the Navy’s efforts in the context of humanitarian causes and therefore demonstrates that its potential can be realized beyond military service. ALSO READ | Cyber ​​Monday 2024: A look at the history, importance and cultural impact

The Indian Navy will enhance its capabilities with the commissioning of several new ships and submarines in 2024.

New ships and submarines

  • INS Surat (missile destroyer)
  • Class: Visakhapatnam Class (Project 15B)
  • Details: INS Surat is the largest new induction ship equipped with advanced weapons including BrahMos supersonic cruise missile and Barak-8 surface-to-air missile. It is designed for multi-role operations and is expected to enter service in December 2024.

  • Class: Calvari class
  • Details: This submarine is the sixth and final submarine in the Kalvari class, enhancing the underwater warfare capabilities of the Indian Navy. It is also scheduled to be operational by the end of 2024.
  • INS Tushil (stealth frigate)
  • Origin: Made in Russia
  • Details: The frigate has completed all trials and will be inducted as part of an agreement between India and Russia for four stealth frigates. INS Tushil is expected to join the fleet in December 2024.

  • Category: Project 17A
  • Details: The indigenous frigate will also form part of the new inductment, contributing to India’s growing naval capabilities.

The day marks the day that forces the Naval Service to recognize that without their contribution, defense would fall short, thereby fostering a sense of civic pride and educating the younger generation on maritime security.

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