Indian Navy to soon induct first homegrown multi-purpose vessel ‘Samarthak’

The first of two multi-purpose vessels being built by Indian conglomerate Larsen and Toubro (L&T) for the Indian Navy was launched on Monday (Oct 14) at the firm’s Kattupalli shipyard, near Chennai. The ceremony was presided over by Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi. The ship has been named ‘Samarthak’ which means ‘supporter’ and is synonymous with the multi-dimensional role that the platform is expected to perform. 

Launching is the ceremonial event where the ship is moved from the dry dock to the water for the first time. Henceforth, the ship will undergo sea trials where its various systems and sub-systems will be tested. Usually, the ships are formally inducted (commissioned) into the Navy after several months and phases of rigorous testing at sea.

As the name suggests, these multi-purpose vessels will be capable of varied roles such as towing ships, launching and recovering various targets during exercises, operating uncrewed autonomous vehicles, and acting as a trial platform for indigenous weapons as well as sensors under development.

These vessels can achieve a maximum speed of 15 knots and measure 106 metres in length and 16.8 metres in width. Once delivered to the Indian Navy, these vessels will undertake maritime surveillance, patrolling, and disaster relief missions, among others.

The Indian Navy reinforced that it remains steadfast in its efforts towards indigenous shipbuilding. The launch of the vessel by a private Indian shipyard showcases Indian Navy’s confidence in indigenous shipbuilding, in consonance with the Government of India’s vision for ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ and ‘Make in India ’ initiative.

These are the first Indian Navy Warships being constructed by L&T, Kattupalli. These are also the first multi-purpose ships that will be part of the Indian Navy’s fleet. Both ships, Samarthak and Utkarsh are to be delivered by the end of 2025.