To protect Indian flagged merchant vessels and oil tankers transiting through the region, India will continue to maintain a naval presence in Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman. 'The Strait of Hormuz is a major chokepoint. Disruption in trade in this region can have a major impact on our economy. Under `Operation Sankalp’, we will continue to deploy a frontline warship, either a destroyer or a frigate with a helicopter and a marine commando intervention team, in the region,' a senior Navy officer said. The Navy says one of its key roles as a security provider for the country’s “Blue Economy” includes maintaining a secure and stable maritime environment to enable unhindered pursuit of maritime economic activities.