Rajnath Singh flags off IOS SAGAR, inaugurates infra projects at Karwar naval base

Karwar (Karnataka): Defence Minister Rajnath Singh flagged off Indian Ocean Ship SAGAR from the strategically-located Karwar naval base in Karnataka on Saturday under a mission that seeks to reinforce India’s commitment to regional maritime security and international cooperation.

During his visit to the base in the afternoon, Singh also inaugurated some newly-developed infrastructure at the key naval site, officials said.

The Navy is expanding the crucial naval base as part of Project Seabird.

“IOS SAGAR will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the Indian Ocean Region, reaffirming India’s commitment to build stronger ties with its maritime neighbours and working towards a safer, more inclusive and secure maritime environment in the Indian Ocean Region. @indiannavy,” the defence minister’s office said in a post on X.

Indian Ocean Ship (IOS) SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) is an initiative towards continued cooperation with IOR nations in pursuance of India’s vision of Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security Across the Regions (MAHASAGAR).

Ahead of Singh’s visit, his office on Friday had posted on X: “Strengthening India’s Naval Power! On 05 April 2025, Raksha Mantri Shri @rajnathsingh will inaugurate newly developed infrastructure at the Karwar Naval Base, a key milestone under #ProjectSeabird. This expansion enhances India’s maritime security with cutting-edge facilities and advanced operational capabilities. @IndianNavy.”

Visited Karwar Naval Base in Karnataka and flagged-off INS Sunayna as Indian Ocean Ship SAGAR from Karwar with 44 personnel of nine friendly nations of Indian Ocean Region.
⁰IOS SAGAR is a reflection of India’s commitment to peace, prosperity & collective security in maritime… pic.twitter.com/9ehVyuhzzi

— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) April 5, 2025

In March 2024, Singh had inaugurated a number of infrastructure projects at this strategically-located base, being developed considering India’s long-term security interests in the Indian Ocean region.

The first phase of Project Seabird was designed to accommodate 10 ships and was successfully concluded in 2011.

The infrastructure comprised a breakwater, a pier capable of berthing 10 ships, a 10,000-ton ship lift and dry berth, a naval ship-repair yard, logistics and armament storage facilities and accommodation for 1,000 personnel.