We strive for development in all areas, from aviation, naval to AI: Vice-Chief of the Naval Staff

Vice Admiral Ajay Kochhar. File | Photo credit: PTI

“The Navy is pursuing development in all areas, from air and underwater to artificial intelligence and quantum technologies, to become a multi-domain network,” Vice Chief of Naval Staff (VCNS) Vice Admiral Ajay Kochhar said on Monday, Oct. 19, 2026.

At a press conference in Delhi, VCNS also said that efforts are being made not only to adopt new technology but also to fulfill operational capabilities.

Asked about the ongoing situation in West Asia and the Navy’s role in protecting maritime interests amid this evolving conflict, he said: “The ongoing crises have kept us engaged, both in terms of thinking and commitment.”

He also mentioned the Navy’s Operation Urja Suraksha, which helped escort many ships safely to Indian shores amid attacks on critical sea lanes.

When asked about lessons learned from recent conflict in terms of technology adoption, VCNS said recent conflicts have brought to the fore changes that forces must embrace and absorb, such as autonomous systems and artificial intelligence in warfighting.

“If I look ahead, it also includes counter-UAS (unmanned aircraft system), the use of quantum technology, which is an area that will develop very soon in the future. We are very aware of all this,” he added.

Mr. Kochhar also said that conflicts alone do not affect the future of the Navy and emphasized the importance of technology to the force.

Published – 19 Oct 2026 14:01 IST