Indian Ocean – the dragon’s new swimming hole
A Type 052D destroyer of the PLA Navy at sea.
The Indian Ocean region is hotting up as an arena for great power competition, as China boosts its presence there.
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
-
![South Korea advances next-gen naval concepts for future force needs]()
South Korea advances next-gen naval concepts for future force needs
HHI and Hanwha Ocean outline highly autonomous and unmanned-enabled designs as the ROKN explores force structure for the 2030s and beyond.
-
![US representatives plan to invest $1.6 billion in US Coast Guard inventory in FY2026]()
US representatives plan to invest $1.6 billion in US Coast Guard inventory in FY2026
The FY26 Homeland Security Bill Markup of the House Committee on Appropriations included resources for the procurement of ships, aircraft and unmanned systems.
-
![US Navy seeks industry partners to address pressing research needs]()
US Navy seeks industry partners to address pressing research needs
The Office of Naval Research will host an Industry Engagement Day in August aiming at building new partnerships and advancing its science and technology initiatives in multiple areas.
-
![Raytheon awarded $1.2 billion in contracts for AN/SPY-6(V) radars for the US Navy]()
Raytheon awarded $1.2 billion in contracts for AN/SPY-6(V) radars for the US Navy
Under the most recent contract, the US Navy will receive four additional AN/SPY-6(V) radars, increasing the number of radars under contract to 42. The radars are considered key for expanding the navy’s capability for air defence.
-
![Royal Canadian Navy’s final Harry DeWolf-class vessel to be delivered this summer]()
Royal Canadian Navy’s final Harry DeWolf-class vessel to be delivered this summer
The sixth Canada’s Arctic and Offshore Patrol Ship is currently at the final stages of construction within Irving Shipbuilding.
