In the framework of regional security dynamics, particularly in the Indian Ocean and the Bay of Bengal, India’s naval superiority and Bangladesh’s strategic predicament are intricately linked. Bangladesh’s military modernization initiatives, India’s expanding maritime capabilities, and its geopolitical rivalry with China all influence this relationship.
Over the past 20 years, India has greatly improved its naval capabilities, establishing itself as a major maritime force in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). The Indian Navy (IN) has demonstrated its commitment to being a responsible global participant through a number of initiatives, such as successful anti-piracy operations and increased participation in international maritime security activities. By concentrating on strategic chokepoints and expanding its interests beyond conventional bounds, the revised Indian Maritime Doctrine highlights India’s position as the leading naval force in the Indian Ocean region.
Given its significance to India’s overall defense strategy, the Indian Navy’s budget has also increased significantly. The navy’s percentage of the defense budget increased to 19% as of 2024, indicating a move toward a stronger marine concentration in the face of escalating tensions with China.
With state-of-the-art destroyers, frigates, and corvettes outfitted with sophisticated weapons and sensors, the Navy’s fleet guarantees supremacy throughout its expanding spheres of influence. Its submarine arm, which includes diesel-electric assault submarines like the Kalvari class and nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs) like the Arihant class, provides strong deterrence against possible enemies. The fact that almost all shipbuilding projects are completed in Indian shipyards demonstrates the nation’s dedication to independence, naval innovation, and defense indigenization.
Bangladesh, on the other hand, has been updating its military capabilities, especially by purchasing submarines from China. India is concerned about this development since it changes the Bay of Bengal’s strategic balance. Bangladesh’s submarines are seen as tools that might improve its sea-denial capabilities against India, in addition to being defensive assets. In order to preserve its dominance in the region, India has been forced to review its naval plans and make investments in anti-submarine warfare capabilities as a result of the introduction of these submarines.
Furthermore, Bangladesh’s relationship with India is made more difficult by its expanding links with China. In an effort to balance off Chinese influence, India has increased its defense diplomacy with Dhaka in response to the recent strengthening of ties between China and Bangladesh, which has been characterized by large infrastructure expenditures under China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). The underlying mistrust still exists despite Bangladesh’s claims that its military purchases are for training and not directed at India, thus diplomatic efforts are required to close the gap.
A complicated South Asian security environment is exemplified by the interaction between Bangladesh’s strategic decisions and India’s naval superiority. Bangladesh’s military modernization presents a difficulty that needs to be carefully navigated as India continues to bolster its naval capabilities in reaction to China’s aggression. In the face of foreign threats, both countries must strike a balance between their different security objectives and promote regional stability.
