Former Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar’s 2016 vision called for expanding India’s submarine fleet from 24 to 50 vessels to counter China’s growing naval assertiveness in the Indian Ocean Region. Highlighting the need for indigenization and skill retention, he emphasized the strategic imperative of bolstering India’s underwater capabilities in light of China’s increasing submarine numbers and Pakistan’s acquisitions. His proposal aimed to enhance deterrence through a diverse mix of conventional and nuclear submarines, aligning with the Make in India initiative. Nearly a decade later, India’s naval modernization efforts continue, with a target of over 200 warships and submarines by 2035, marking significant progress towards realizing Parrikar’s ambitious vision.