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.

Mumbai: Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Wednesday the launch of two Indian-made warships and a submarine was key to its “quest towards self-reliance”. New Delhi is expanding its armed forces to upgrade its mostly Soviet-era weaponry and respond to what many in India see as a growing threat from neighbours.

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