Strengthening naval strike capability is central to India's maritime security in the Indo-Pacific. Critically analyse.

Naval strike capability means the power to hit enemy ships and shore targets from long range. It is the basis of sea denial in a contested Indo-Pacific. In October 2026, the Ministry of Defence signed a Rs 661.50 crore contract for BrahMos fire control systems and launchers for Navy ships, with at least 68% indigenous content [1]. This shows strike power is a priority. However, it is necessary for maritime security but not sufficient on its own.

Why strike capability is central

• Deterrence and sea denial: BrahMos is the Navy's primary surface-to-surface missile. It strikes sea and land targets at supersonic speed [1], which raises the cost of hostile action in the Indian Ocean Region.
• Jointness: the missile can be fired from land, sea and air. It is in service with both the Navy and Army [3], so the services can operate together on one platform.
• Strategic partnerships: India has exported BrahMos to the Philippines, and Vietnam, Indonesia and Malaysia have shown interest [2]. This makes India a security partner in Southeast Asia.
• Aatmanirbharta: buying under the Buy (Indian-IDDM) category brings in MSMEs and creates jobs [1].

Limitations

• Weapons outpace platforms: launchers are of no use without ships to carry them. Under Project-75, six submarines due by 2017 were completed only in 2025. About 65 ships and submarines are still under construction [4].
• Funding gap: for 2021-26, capital outlay was Rs 9.01 lakh crore against a planned need of Rs 17.46 lakh crore, a 48% shortfall [4].
• Slow procurement: the Standing Committee on Defence called MoD's 19–26 month acquisition cycle too long [4].
• Strategic dependence: India took 10% of global arms imports in 2013–23 [4]. BrahMos is still co-owned with Russia's NPO Mashinostroyenia [3], so the supply risk remains.
• Strike is one pillar: without surveillance and anti-submarine capability, missiles cannot find or protect against the threats that matter.

Way forward

• Create the non-lapsable Defence Modernisation Fund recommended by the 15th Finance Commission [4].
• Align weapon and hull delivery dates, and fast-track repeat orders for proven systems.
• Use the Technology Development Fund to develop seekers and propulsion at home [4].

Strike capability is the cutting edge of India's maritime posture, but it adds to security only when platforms, funding and home-grown technology keep pace. A balanced build-up of strike power, ships, surveillance and partnerships, financed predictably, would let India serve as a reliable net security provider in a free and open Indo-Pacific.