<h4>Introduction to Indian Navy's Modernization</h4><p>The <strong>Indian Navy</strong> is undergoing significant modernization, marked by the commissioning of advanced vessels, strategic acquisition programs, and enhanced rescue capabilities. These developments underscore India's commitment to strengthening its maritime defense and promoting self-reliance.</p><h4>MILAN Exercise: A Multilateral Naval Gathering</h4><p>The <strong>MILAN exercise</strong> is a biennial multilateral naval exercise aimed at enhancing professional interaction among friendly navies. It facilitates gaining experience in large-force operations at sea, fostering regional cooperation and understanding.</p><div class='info-box'><ul><li><strong>Origin:</strong> Began in <strong>Andaman and Nicobar Islands</strong> in <strong>1995</strong>.</li><li><strong>Initial Participants:</strong> Navies of <strong>Indonesia</strong>, <strong>Singapore</strong>, <strong>Sri Lanka</strong>, and <strong>Thailand</strong>.</li></ul></div><h4>Commissioning of New Ships: Bolstering Naval Fleet</h4><p>Recent years have seen the induction of several key vessels, significantly boosting the <strong>Indian Navy's</strong> operational capabilities. These commissions highlight India's growing indigenous shipbuilding prowess.</p><div class='key-point-box'><p>These new commissions are pivotal for enhancing India's <strong>blue-water capabilities</strong> and projecting its influence across the <strong>Indian Ocean Region</strong>.</p></div><ul><li><strong>INS Vikrant:</strong> India’s <strong>first indigenously built aircraft carrier</strong>. It represents a monumental stride towards <strong>self-reliance in defence manufacturing</strong> and strategic autonomy.</li><li><strong>INS Mormugao:</strong> A <strong>stealth guided-missile destroyer</strong>. This vessel is part of <strong>Project 15B</strong>, designed to significantly enhance the Navy’s <strong>anti-surface warfare capabilities</strong>.</li><li><strong>INS Vagir:</strong> A new <strong>Kalvari-class submarine</strong>. Its induction further strengthens the <strong>Navy’s underwater power</strong> and surveillance capabilities.</li><li><strong>INS Sandhayak:</strong> The <strong>first Survey Vessel Large (SVL) ship</strong> commissioned into the Indian Navy. It is crucial for hydrographic surveys and oceanographic research.</li></ul><h4>Recent Acquisition Programs: Future-Proofing the Fleet</h4><p>Beyond immediate commissions, the <strong>Indian Navy</strong> is actively pursuing ambitious acquisition programs to ensure its future operational readiness and technological edge.</p><ul><li><strong>Project 17A Frigates:</strong> These are <strong>advanced stealth frigates</strong> currently under construction at indigenous shipyards. They incorporate advanced stealth features, weapon systems, and sensors.</li><li><strong>Project 75I Submarines:</strong> A critical program to build <strong>six indigenously-designed submarines</strong>. These submarines will feature advanced stealth technology and enhanced firepower, bolstering India's underwater fleet.</li></ul><h4>Submarine Rescue Advancements: A Niche Capability</h4><p>Enhancing <strong>submarine rescue capabilities</strong> is a strategic imperative for any modern navy. India has made significant strides in this specialized domain.</p><div class='info-box'><ul><li><strong>Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicles (DSRVs):</strong> The <strong>Indian Navy</strong> acquired advanced <strong>DSRVs</strong> in <strong>2018</strong> and <strong>2019</strong> from the <strong>United Kingdom</strong>.</li><li><strong>Global Standing:</strong> India is now among only <strong>12 countries</strong> possessing this niche technology, highlighting its strategic importance and advanced naval capabilities.</li><li><strong>Indigenous Support:</strong> The induction of two indigenous <strong>Diving Support Vessels (DSVs)</strong> by <strong>Hindustan Shipyard Ltd, Visakhapatnam</strong>, further strengthens submarine rescue operations.</li><li><strong>DSRV Capabilities:</strong> These systems can locate submarines up to <strong>1,000 metres depth</strong> using advanced <strong>sonar technology</strong> and <strong>remotely operated vehicles</strong>.</li></ul></div><div class='exam-tip-box'><p>Understanding the push for <strong>indigenization</strong> and <strong>self-reliance</strong> in defence, exemplified by projects like <strong>INS Vikrant</strong> and <strong>Project 75I</strong>, is crucial for <strong>UPSC Mains GS-3</strong> questions on internal security and defence.</p></div>