Indian Navy chief Admiral Karambir Singh on Thursday said INS Vela, the fourth Scorpene-class submarine, will play a crucial role in enhancing the Indian Navy's ability to protect the nation's maritime interests.
Chief of Naval Staff was addressing an event at the naval dockyard in Mumbai, where INS Vela, the fourth Scorpene-class submarine was commissioned into the Indian Navy today.
He also said that the navy is closely monitoring defence cooperation between China and Pakistan.
"We are closely monitoring the defence cooperation between China and Pakistan. The recent procurements by Pakistan from China may change the dynamics, so we need to remain cautious," said Admiral Singh.
INS Vela is the fourth submarine in the series that was launched in May 2019. The first, INS Kalvari, was launched in October 2015 and commissioned in December 2017, five years behind schedule. INS Khanderi, the second, was commissioned in September 2019 after its launch in January 2017 for trials. The third, INS Karanj, was launched in January 2018 and commissioned on March 10, 2021. INS Vagir, The fifth one, was launched in November 2020 and has commenced harbour trials. It is expected to go for its first surface sortie in December. INS Vagsheer, the sixth submarine, is in the advanced stage of outfitting.
This is also the second major induction in the Indian Navy in less than a week. On November 21, the navy commissioned warship INS Visakhapatnam.
Also read: Interesting facts: With World-Class amenities, Jewar Airport will be Asia’s Biggest
Earlier this month, China delivered its largest and most advanced warship to Pakistan as it seeks to beef up the navy of its all-weather ally in the Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean, where it has increased its own naval presence in recent years.