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

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

The commissioning of three major naval combatants marks a significant leap forward in realising India's vision of becoming a global leader in defence manufacturing and maritime security.

India made history Wednesday by commissioning two indigenously developed and manufactured warships - a class-leading stealth frigate and guided missile destroyer - and an attack submarine.

The second of the two multi-purpose vessels being constructed by L&T Shipyard for the Indian Navy was at L&T’s Kattupalli facility in Chennai.

The launch underscores the importance of the Indian Ocean region, through which 95% of the country's trade moves.