Iran’s Chokehold On Hormuz: How Prepared Is India To Tackle Naval Mine Threat?

The deployment of naval mines by Iran in the Strait of Hormuz has presented the world with a new challenge. America is scurrying mine hunters from half the world away to tackle this menace. This comes at a time when India is still not able to replace the mine sweepers it retired in 2019. India is in the middle of its fourth attempt to induct minesweepers in its fleet. The ongoing conflict has shown the importance of these vessels. As India builds its coastal infrastructure at huge costs, New Delhi must focus on procuring and deploying these vessels at the earliest to close a gap in its capabilities.