India Bolsters Naval Presence Near Maldives Amid China Concerns
The Indian Navy is strengthening its position on islands near the Maldives, citing “strategic importance” amid growing tensions with the archipelago nation.
A new naval base will open on Agatti island days before the Maldives begins evicting Indian forces per an expulsion order. Relations have frayed since the election of President Mohamed Muizzu, who is seen as aligned with rival China.
Muizzu pledged the removal of Indian troops during his campaign last year. India has grown wary of expanding Chinese influence under his administration.
By expanding its base near the Maldives, the Indian Navy aims to extend its “operational surveillance” of the region. The move suggests India seeks to counterbalance China’s presence in the island chain along vital Indian Ocean trade routes.
But it risks escalating tensions with Male, which has bristled under heavy Indian military presence and will soon force withdrawals under Muizzu’s directive.
With the base timing and cited strategic goals, New Delhi appears poised to fill any vacuum left by departing forces. The dueling geopolitical moves signal deepening divisions between India and a historically close ally now drifting toward its main regional rival.
