In a significant move to bolster the capabilities of the Indian Navy, the Central Government has allocated a substantial sum of ₹20,000 crores for the naval ship program. This allocation stands as a crucial endorsement for the construction of five naval vessels under the Navy’s warship program. The responsibility for crafting these vessels has been entrusted to Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL), stationed in Visakhapatnam. The timeline for this ambitious endeavour is set at eight years for the culmination of construction.
This strategic allocation forms a vital component of the broader vision of endorsing ‘Aatmanirbhar’ within India. By championing the fabrication of indigenous ships, the Indian Navy takes momentous strides towards realising its self-reliance objectives. The HSL’s shipbuilding efforts are poised to harness the collaborative potential of Indian private sector enterprises, especially those operating within the realm of small and medium enterprises. An additional noteworthy facet of this project is its potential to catalyse the creation of numerous employment opportunities.
These ships, each boasting an impressive weight of approximately 45,000 tonnes, assume a pivotal role in ensuring the operational continuity of various naval warships. They are set to serve as crucial conduits for the provision of essential resources such as fuel, sustenance, ammunition, and spare parts, thereby sustaining the effective functioning of the Navy’s diverse fleet.
Adding to this remarkable development is the forthcoming introduction of INS Vindhyagiri, a tribute to India’s rich naval heritage. Derived from the eponymous mountain range in Karnataka, INS Vindhyagiri will soon join the naval forces as the sixth addition to Project 17A. This state-of-the-art warship stands as a testament to India’s commitment to modernity, featuring advanced stealth capabilities, cutting-edge weaponry, state-of-the-art sensors, and a sophisticated platform management system. Beyond its technological prowess, INS Vindhyagiri is poised to contribute significantly to the reinforcement of indigenous defence capabilities.
Comments