First-of-Class Vessel Launched
Larsen & Toubro (L&T) launched the first Multi-Purpose Vessel (MPV) for the Indian Navy from its Kattupalli Shipyard, near Chennai. The vessel, named INS Samarthak, was launched by Ms. Shashi Tripathi, President of the Navy Wives Welfare Association, with Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi in attendance.
Key Officials Present
The ceremony saw the presence of senior Navy officials including Vice Admiral B. Sivakumar, Controller of Warship Production & Acquisition, Rear Admiral Sandeep Mehta, and Rear Admiral Ravi Kumar Dhingra, Flag Officer Commanding Tamil Nadu & Puducherry Naval Area.
A Versatile Maritime Asset
INS Samarthak is designed as a highly specialized platform for various naval operations. It will play a key role in the development of next-generation weapons and sensors. The vessel will also be involved in launching and recovering surface and aerial targets, maritime surveillance, patrolling, and humanitarian aid.
Vessel Specifications
The MPV is 107 meters long, 18.6 meters wide, and has a displacement of over 3,750 tonnes. It was designed and built entirely by L&T, in line with the Indian Government’s ‘Make in India’ initiative and the vision for an ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ (Self-Reliant India).
Commitment to National Security
Mr. AT Ramchandani, Senior Vice President & Head of L&T Precision Engineering & Systems, highlighted the significance of the launch. He stated, “The launch of the first MPV on schedule, despite global supply chain disruptions, underscores L&T’s commitment to national security and defense manufacturing.”
Advanced Shipbuilding Capabilities
L&T’s Kattupalli Shipyard is one of India’s most advanced shipbuilding facilities, equipped to handle new constructions and repairs. In addition to two MPVs, L&T is constructing three Cadet Training Ships and six other defense vessels for the Indian Navy. The shipyard is also repairing the US Naval Ship, USNS Charles Drew, under an agreement with the US Navy.
Looking Ahead
With INS Samarthak, L&T continues to contribute to the strengthening of India’s maritime defense capabilities, reflecting the company’s innovative solutions and commitment to supporting the Indian Navy.
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