India Sends Warships To South China Sea

New Delhi: In an effort to expand security ties with friendly countries and signalling its intent to play a bigger role in regional efforts to counter China, India is beginning a maritime initiative by sending a naval task force to the South China Sea this month.

Four ships including a guided missile destroyer and a missile frigate will be deployed for a two-month period to southeast Asia, the South China Sea and the western Pacific, the navy said in a statement, NDTV reported.

“The deployment of the Indian Navy ships seeks to underscore the operational reach, peaceful presence and solidarity with friendly countries towards ensuring good order in the maritime domain…” the navy said.

As part of their deployment, the Indian ships will take part in annual joint war drills involving the United States, Japan and Australia off the coast of Guam, the navy added.

The four countries make up the Quad, an informal group, that U.S. President Joe Biden’s administration is promoting as a way to counter an assertive China.

“These maritime initiatives enhance synergy and coordination between the Indian Navy and friendly countries, based on common maritime interests and commitment towards Freedom of Navigation at sea,” the Indian navy said in its statement, NDTV reported.