China has increased naval deployments in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) and has become very assertive in the strategic water amid the ongoing border stand-off along the Line of Actual Control in eastern Ladakh, sources in the Indian Navy said on Friday.

“In the wake of China’s growing influence in the Indian Ocean, the Indian Navy has also bolstered surveillance and operational capabilities from Andaman and Nicobar Islands, close to the Strait of Malacca to defend India’s maritime interests,” said a navy official.

The navy, he said, has been on an operational preparedness in the IOR and has stepped up surveillance amid China’s attempt to stake claim to large portions of the disputed South China Sea. The navy’s eastern fleet has also increased the deployment of ships in the IOR around the Andaman & Nicobar Islands.

The Chinese navy, the official said, has been present in the IOR since 2008 and has eight to nine warships. Besides, the Indian Navy is working on setting up coastal surveillance systems in friendly countries, especially Bangladesh, Mauritius, Maldives and Sri Lanka.

The surveillance systems and radars can easily detect boats, fishing vessels and any illegal activities in the sea.