India to Establish Naval Base in Haldia to Monitor Bangladesh-China Activities
Top naval officials told India Today that the decision follows an increased presence of the Chinese Navy in the northern Bay of Bengal. Furthermore, Indian security analysts are closely monitoring the recent uptick in high-level engagements and visits between the militaries of Bangladesh and Pakistan.
Strategic Advantages: Located approximately 100 km from Kolkata, the Haldia base will allow Indian naval forces to reach the Bay of Bengal swiftly via the Hooghly River. By utilizing the existing Haldia Dock Complex, the Navy aims to minimize the need for extensive new infrastructure.
Advanced Weaponry and Deployment: The base will host high-speed military vessels, including: Fast Interceptor Crafts (FIC), New Water Jet Fast Attack Crafts (NWJFAC)
These vessels, capable of reaching speeds between 74 and 83 km/h, will be equipped with CRN-91 automatic machine guns and indigenous ‘Nagastra’ kamikaze drones. Approximately 100 naval personnel will be permanently stationed at the facility.
Analysts suggest this strategic deployment is a direct counter-measure to China’s growing influence in the Indian Ocean and the deepening military cooperation between Dhaka, Beijing, and Islamabad.
