The first idea to create a dedicated amphibious force was struck when Indian Navy was to acquire the landing platform dock, the INS Jalashva (former USS Trenton) in 2007. The Pentagon transferred not only a warship with this deal but also the whole idea of expeditionary warfare that the Indian military had so far been chary about.
In 2008 India unveiled the joint doctrine for its amphibious operations. The doctrine was meant to serve as a guideline on how the armed forces intend to plan and conduct amphibious operations and achieve full synergistic effect of joint combat power.
In February 2009 the 91 Infantry Brigade was re-raised by Indian Army in amphibious role comprising of 3 infantry battalions and a strength of 3,000 personnel. The soldiers have been drawn from the Sikh, Gorkha and Madras regiments.
This was the first time that the Indian Army has raised a sea-based force large enough to be considered as an expeditionary force that can be airborne and seaborne at the same time.
It took time to master this and now, the 9th Sikh Li (Marine) is now a Dedicated Amphibious assault Force and affiliated to Guided Missile Frigate INS Teg whereas INS Khukhri is affiliated with Gurkha Rifles.
Amphibious warships of the Indian Navy, the INS Shardul, was affiliated to the 5 Armoured Regiment of the Indian Army earlier.
Loaded with state-of-the-art equipment, INS Shardul is an amphibious warship capable of transporting personnel and accomplishing all objectives of beaching operations.