'Grey war zone' in South China sea a cause of concern: Indian Navy

Vice Admiral D.K. Tripathi emphasized the Navy's vigilant monitoring and swift action against these activities in real-time. Addressing the press ahead of Indian Navy Day celebrations, he stressed the importance of coastal security and offered training assistance to the state administration.

For the first time, the Navy's western command will host the celebrations in Malwan, Sindhudurg, to honor Navy's founder Chhatrapati Shivaji. Tripathi lauded the Navy's efforts in achieving self-reliance, commissioning numerous ships and submarines from Indian shipyards. With ongoing shipbuilding contracts worth over Rs 1.15 lakh crore, the Navy aims for 65 out of 67 ships and submarines to be constructed domestically.

Tripathi underscored the challenges posed by IUU fishing, trafficking, and piracy, necessitating new approaches to maritime security. He highlighted a significant narcotics seizure and the ongoing threats to international shipping and seafarers due to unregulated activities. The Navy closely monitors activities in the Indian and South China seas, analyzing data and providing relevant insights to headquarters for prompt action.