India's navy has launched a submarine, a destroyer and a frigate built at a state-run shipyard. The move on Wednesday underscores the importance of protecting the Indian Ocean region through which 95% of the country’s trade moves amid a strong Chinese presence.

India's navy launched a submarine, a destroyer and a frigate simultaneously on Wednesday to counter China's expansion into the Indian Ocean.

The P75 Scorpene submarine project represents India’s growing expertise in submarine construction in collaboration with the Naval Group of France, Mr Bedi said. India’s defenc