Indian Navy Surface Warfare

1. Indian Navy Surface Warfare in Government

The Indian Navy Surface Warfare (SW) is a branch that deals with managing surface combatants like warships and boats, focusing on operational readiness, strategic defense, and offensive capabilities. The Surface Warfare officers are responsible for tactical operations on the sea, maintaining weapon systems, and participating in maritime security and defense missions.

2. Education Eligibility

To join as an officer in the Indian Navy’s Surface Warfare, candidates typically need:

  • A B.E./B.Tech degree in specific branches (Mechanical, Electrical, Electronics, etc.).
  • Candidates should have passed from a recognized university or institute with a minimum percentage (usually 60% or more).
  • For Sailor recruitment, the educational qualification might differ (e.g., 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics).

3. Handicapped Eligibility

As of current guidelines, the Indian Navy does not generally accept candidates with physical disabilities (handicapped) for entry into Surface Warfare roles due to the physical demands of the job. However, there are other roles in the Navy that might be accessible.

4. Age Eligibility

The age eligibility varies:

  • For Officer Cadet Entry (Indian Naval Academy): Between 19 to 24 years.
  • For Sailor Entry: Age between 17 to 21 years (depending on specific recruitments).
  • Age relaxations might be applicable for specific categories like SC/ST, OBC, etc.

5. Physical Eligibility

  • Height: Minimum 157 cm for male candidates, 152 cm for female candidates.
  • Weight: Proportional to height, with specific guidelines.
  • Vision: 6/6 in one eye, 6/9 in the other eye (for Naval Officers).
  • Medical Fitness: A thorough medical examination is required for all candidates.

6. Pay Grade

The pay scale for Indian Navy officers includes:

  • Pay Band: Level 10 in the Pay Matrix (Approx. ₹56,100 – ₹1,77,500).
  • There are allowances like military service pay, house rent allowance, and others depending on posting.
  • For Sailors: The initial pay is around ₹21,700 to ₹69,100, depending on the rank.

7. Ex-Soldier Eligibility

Ex-soldiers can join the Indian Navy in various roles, including Surface Warfare, as long as they meet the specific age, physical, and educational eligibility criteria. The recruitment process for ex-servicemen may have separate notifications and relaxations in terms of age.

8. Reservation

The Indian Navy follows the Government of India reservation policies for SC/ST, OBC, and other reserved categories. The specific relaxations apply to age limits, educational qualifications, and other criteria.

9. Sports Persons

Sports persons who have represented the nation in international events may receive additional preferences during the recruitment process. The exact eligibility depends on the nature of the recruitment and the sport.

10. Promotion in Career

Officers in the Surface Warfare branch have opportunities for promotion through the ranks, which includes:

  • Sub-Lieutenant
  • Lieutenant
  • Lieutenant Commander
  • Commander
  • Captain
  • Rear Admiral
  • Vice Admiral Promotions depend on performance, seniority, and vacancies.

11. Special Eligibility for Certain Persons

Some candidates with specialized qualifications, like technical expertise or unique skills, might be eligible for certain roles within Surface Warfare that require such expertise. This includes candidates with specific engineering backgrounds, navigation experience, or other maritime skills.

12. Work at the Workplace

At the workplace, as a Surface Warfare officer, you will primarily:

  • Oversee the operation of surface combatant ships (warships, aircraft carriers, etc.).
  • Engage in combat and defensive operations on the seas.
  • Manage ship systems (radar, communication, weapons, etc.).
  • Plan and execute naval exercises, training, and missions.
  • Ensure the operational readiness of the ship.

13. Department and Notification Website Link

The Indian Navy recruits through the Indian Navy Recruitment Website. For official notifications, visit:

Look for Surface Warfare-related recruitment notifications under the “Officer Entry” or “Sailor Entry” section.

14. Department to Join

You would be joining the Indian Navy’s Surface Warfare Division, which falls under the Naval Operations Branch. This includes both officer and sailor posts, and specific roles are based on your qualifications and the department you apply for.