In a significant step towards strengthening India’s maritime capabilities, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday inaugurated several critical infrastructure projects at the Karwar Naval Base in Karnataka. As part of the Navy’s strategic expansion under Project Seabird, the minister also flagged off the Indian Ocean Ship (IOS) SAGAR, reinforcing India’s commitment to regional security and maritime cooperation.

Arriving at the naval base around 1 PM in a military helicopter, the Defence Minister was welcomed with a ceremonial Guard of Honour at the Parade Ground. He is scheduled to spend a few hours at the facility, engaging in multiple events, including inaugurations and reviews of ongoing naval projects.

IOS SAGAR Flagged Off from Karwar

Highlighting India's vision of regional maritime cooperation, Rajnath Singh officially flagged off INS Sunayna as the Indian Ocean Ship SAGAR from the Karwar base. The mission involves 44 personnel from nine different navies, underscoring multinational cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

The Office of the Raksha Mantri confirmed the development earlier on X, posting, "Raksha Mantri Shri @rajnathsingh will flag off #INSSunayna as the Indian Ocean Ship SAGAR with 44 personnel from 9 navies embarked onboard, from #Karwar today."

In the same post, a video showcasing the training phases of the mission, both at sea and on land, was shared. The ministry noted, "IOS SAGAR will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the Indian Ocean Region, reaffirming India’s commitment to build stronger ties with its maritime neighbours and working towards a safer, more inclusive and secure maritime environment in the Indian Ocean Region."

India’s Vision for Regional Maritime Security

The launch of IOS SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) is part of India’s broader strategic initiative titled Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security Across the Regions (MAHASAGAR). The mission aims to enhance continued cooperation with IOR nations, aligning with India’s foreign and defence policy focus on a secure and cooperative maritime domain.

Project Seabird and Karwar Base Expansion

The Defence Minister's visit also marked a major milestone under Project Seabird, India’s flagship naval expansion programme. Singh inaugurated the newly developed state-of-the-art infrastructure that significantly enhances operational and logistical capabilities at the Karwar base. Ahead of his visit, the Raksha Mantri's office posted on X, "Strengthening India’s Naval Power! On 05 April 2025, Raksha Mantri Shri @rajnathsingh will inaugurate newly developed infrastructure at the Karwar Naval Base, a key milestone under #ProjectSeabird."

The post added, "This expansion enhances India’s maritime security with cutting-edge facilities and advanced operational capabilities. @IndianNavy."

Karwar is a strategically vital location for India's naval operations in the Indian Ocean. In March 2024, the Defence Minister had also inaugurated several other facilities at the base, all aimed at bolstering India's long-term maritime security.

The first phase of Project Seabird, completed in 2011, enabled the base to berth up to 10 naval vessels. It included the construction of a breakwater, a pier capable of docking 10 ships, a 10,000-tonne ship lift, a dry berth, ship repair facilities, armament storage areas, and accommodations for around 1,000 personnel.

Under Phase-IIA, approved by the Cabinet Committee on Security, the expansion will now allow for the berthing of 32 ships and submarines, along with 23 yardcraft, further elevating India’s naval infrastructure in the region.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s visit to Karwar not only marked the inauguration of critical military infrastructure but also symbolised India's rising influence and leadership in the Indian Ocean Region. With the launch of IOS SAGAR and ongoing developments under Project Seabird, India continues to project its vision of security, growth, and partnership across maritime boundaries.