Indian Ocean – the dragon’s new swimming hole
A Type 052D destroyer of the PLA Navy at sea.
On 7 April the USN issued a press release detailing the movement of USS John Paul Jones, an Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer, 130nmi west of the Lakshadweep Islands and inside the Indian exclusive economic zone (EEZ).
The operation was conducted without requesting Indian consent but in accordance with international law. According to the USN: ‘This freedom of navigation operation [FONOP] upheld the rights, freedoms and lawful uses of the sea recognised in international law by challenging India’s excessive maritime claims.’
However, for many that have been quarantined at home due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it was surprising to
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Naval Warfare
-
DSEI 2025: Red Cat expands into USV production with focus on combat-proven technology
At DSEI 2025, Red Cat outlines its expansion from UAVs into uncrewed surface vessels (USVs), positioning itself as a multi-domain defence provider spanning land, sea, and air.
-
Anduril Australia wins A$1.7 billion Ghost Shark XL-AUV contract
The vessels are expected to deliver a major boost to Australia’s undersea warfare capabilities, with production set to start immediately.
-
Royal Canadian Navy will start operating class 2 UAVs in 2028
Acquired under Canada’s Department of National Defence ISTAR UAS project, the drones will be deployed from the Halifax-class frigates.
-
US Navy prepares next step of the F-35 Block 4 upgrade while GAO predicts acquisition delays
The US Navy published a pre-solicitation notice of intent for the third phase of the F-35 Reprogramming Verification & Validation System. Meanwhile, with a five-year delay in its schedule, GAO foresees more postponements in the completion of the Block 4 effort.