Source: PIB

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Context:

• Indian Naval Ship INS Ranvir, of the Eastern Fleet under the aegis of the Eastern Naval Command arrived at Chattogram, Bangladesh on 29 Jun 24 as part of an Operational Deployment.
• The ship was accorded a warm welcome by the Bangladesh Navy.

Details:

• During the visit, personnel from the Indian and Bangladesh navies will engage in a wide range of professional interactions including Subject Matter Expert Exchange (SMEE), cross-deck visits, community outreach, and friendly sports fixtures aimed at further strengthening existing cooperation and maritime linkages between both navies and nations.
• The visit will further strengthen the longstanding friendship, cooperation as also interoperability between both nations through a series of engagements and activities aligned with the Government of India’s focus on Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR).

About INS RANVIR:

INS Ranvir is a Rajput Class Guided Missile Destroyer that has undergone an upgrade with state-of-the-art weapons and sensors, the majority being indigenous reiterating the Indian Navy's steadfast focus on Aatmanirbharta.

• INS Ranvir (D54) is a distinguished destroyer in the Indian Navy, serving as a pivotal asset in maritime defense. The vessel, classified as a Rajput-class destroyer, reflects India’s strategic maritime capabilities.
• Commissioned on April 28, 1986, INS Ranvir has significantly contributed to patrolling, safeguarding maritime interests, and enhancing power projection in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

Historical Background and Commissioning:

• The Rajput-class destroyers, including INS Ranvir, were built as part of India’s initiative to modernize its naval fleet in the late 20th century. Constructed in the former Soviet Union, INS Ranvir is the fourth ship in this class.
• The ship was commissioned into the Indian Navy in 1986, marking the beginning of its service aimed at reinforcing maritime security and sovereignty.

Specifications and Armaments:

INS Ranvir has impressive specifications and an armament suite designed for multi-dimensional warfare.

Key specifications include:

• Displacement: Approximately 4,974 tons when fully loaded
• Length: 146 meters
• Beam: 15.8 meters
• Speed: Capable of achieving speeds up to 30 knots

The ship is equipped with a diverse array of weaponry, including:

• Missiles: The ship is armed with surface-to-surface missiles (SSMs) such as the Kh-35 Uran and BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles, and surface-to-air missiles (SAMs) like the SA-N-1 Goa.
• Guns: INS Ranvir features a 100 mm AK-100 gun, alongside CIWS (Close-In Weapon System) for defense against incoming missiles and aircraft.
• Torpedoes and Anti-Submarine Warfare: The vessel is outfitted with RBU-6000 anti-submarine rocket launchers and 533 mm torpedo tubes, enhancing its capabilities against underwater threats.

Operational Role and Contributions

• Maritime Security: Conducting patrols and ensuring the safety of maritime trade routes in the IOR.
• Power Projection: Exhibiting India’s naval strength and readiness during international exercises and naval diplomacy.
• Multilateral Exercises: Participating in exercises like Malabar, Varuna, and others alongside navies of the USA, France, and other nations, which improve interoperability and strategic partnerships.
• Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR): Providing aid and support during natural disasters and evacuations, showcasing India’s capability for rapid response and humanitarian efforts.

About SAGAR Initiative

'SAGAR' is an initiative that underscores India's commitment to ensuring security, stability, and economic prosperity for all countries in the Indian Ocean Region, reflecting a cooperative and inclusive approach to regional issues.

Source:

https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2029739

PRACTICE QUESTION Analyze the challenges and opportunities India faces in ensuring maritime security. Suggest measures India can take to strengthen its maritime security posture.