Kolkata/Haldia: The Indian Navy is preparing to establish a new naval base at Haldia, aiming to tighten maritime security in the northern Bay of Bengal amid rising Chinese naval activity and shifting regional dynamics involving Bangladesh and Pakistan.
Naval ‘Detachment’ for Rapid Operations
According to sources, the upcoming facility will function as a compact naval detachment with quick operational capability. It will leverage the existing Haldia dock complex, allowing the Navy to activate the base swiftly with minimal new infrastructure. Initial development is expected to include a dedicated jetty and essential shore-support systems.
Fast, Agile Warships at the Core
The Haldia base is expected to host Fast Interceptor Crafts and 300-tonne New Water Jet Fast Attack Crafts. These high-speed platforms—capable of 40–45 knots—are designed for rapid-response missions and explained to be armed with CRN-91 guns. They are also likely to be fitted with loitering munitions such as the Nagastra system, enhancing strike and surveillance reach.
Why Haldia Matters
Security experts point to multiple strategic drivers: increased deployments by the People’s Liberation Army Navy in the Indian Ocean Region, growing concerns over maritime infiltration, and reported illegal crossings via sea routes from Bangladesh. The shallow waters and dense maritime traffic along the India–Bangladesh coastline make fast, agile vessels especially effective for interception and deterrence.
China Factor Looms Large
The base gains added significance against the backdrop of China’s expanding naval footprint and its deepening defence and infrastructure engagement with Bangladesh, alongside Beijing’s long-standing military partnership with Pakistan.
Compact Base, Strategic Edge
With an expected strength of around 100 officers and sailors, the Haldia facility will not be a full-fledged command. Located roughly 100 km from Kolkata, it offers direct access to the Bay of Bengal, bypassing the time-consuming transit through the Hooghly river—an operational advantage during contingencies.
Part of a Broader Naval Push
The move dovetails with India’s wider naval expansion along the eastern seaboard, which includes the Eastern Naval Command headquartered at Visakhapatnam and key facilities in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Officials said land for the Haldia base had been earmarked earlier, but construction had remained pending.
In 2024, the Defence Acquisition Council, chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, cleared the procurement of 120 Fast Interceptor Crafts and 31 New Water Jet Fast Attack Crafts. Designed for coastal patrol, anti-infiltration, harbour defence and special operations, these assets are seen as critical to securing sea lanes, tracking regional developments and reinforcing India’s role as a net security provider in the region.
