In light of China’s growing naval activity and shifting security ties involving Bangladesh and Pakistan, the Indian Navy is planning to set up a strategic base at Haldia in West Bengal. The initiative aims to strengthen India’s maritime presence in the northern Bay of Bengal amid changing regional dynamics. According to reports, the facility will function as a naval “detachment,” primarily focused on deploying small, fast warships capable of rapid-response operations. By using the existing Haldia dock infrastructure, the Navy can make the base operational quickly with minimal additional construction.

Early development will include building a dedicated jetty and essential shore-based support systems. This approach of utilising current port facilities ensures faster implementation while keeping the setup compact and mission-oriented. The Haldia unit is expected to host Fast Interceptor Crafts (FICs) and 300-tonne New Water Jet Fast Attack Crafts (NWJFACs), which can reach speeds of 40 to 45 knots, making them well-suited for interception and coastal security tasks. These vessels will be equipped with CRN-91 guns and advanced systems such as loitering munitions like the Nagastra, enhancing their surveillance, precision strike, and rapid-response capabilities.

The decision to establish the base is driven by China’s increasing influence in the Indian Ocean and its strengthening defence and infrastructure ties with Bangladesh. This is further complicated by China’s long-standing military relationship with Pakistan, forming a strategic challenge that India aims to address. The base will be relatively small, with around 100 personnel, indicating its role as a specialised operational outpost rather than a major naval command. Located about 100 kilometres from Kolkata, it offers direct access to the Bay of Bengal, avoiding the longer route through the Hooghly River.

Regional concerns intensified last November when the Pakistan Navy deployed PNS Saif, a Chinese-built guided missile frigate, to Bangladesh. The visit was seen as significant by observers, especially as it coincided with improving defence ties between Bangladesh and Pakistan following the departure of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in August 2024. During this period, both countries also conducted their first-ever two-star level naval staff talks, and Indian officials expect this cooperation to deepen further in the future.