From Tushil to Nirdeshak: Indian Navy's Nation Building Through Shipbuilding Masterplan
21:33 17.12.2024 (Updated: 11:35 18.12.2024)
© Photo : Indian Navy
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The Indian Navy is modernizing its fleet of naval vessels at a rapid pace in a bid to become a 175-warship force by 2035, with 96 modern and state-of-the-art ships and submarines to be inducted in the next 10 years.
Days after India's stealth frigate INS Tushil was handed over to the Indian Navy by Russia, the country is set to commission INS Nirdeshak, the Second Survey Vessel Large (SVL) ship, at the Naval Dockyard, Visakhapatnam on Wednesday.
The ship, having a displacement of 3400 tons and an overall length of 110 meters, is equipped with advanced hydrographic equipment, satellite-based positioning systems and terrestrial survey tools. INS Nirdeshak is powered by two diesel engines and can float at a maximum speed of 18 knots.
"Commissioning of Nirdeshak is an affirmation of India's expertise in design and warship construction. A myriad of indigenous equipment has been provided with a total of over 80% Indigenous Content by cost and is a tribute to the collaborative efforts between the Indian Navy and the Indian Shipbuilding Industry, including more than 100 MSMEs," an Indian Ministry of Defence (MoD) source told Sputnik India.
These ships will be fitted with major equipment sourced from indigenous OEMs/ MSMEs viz M/s BEL, BHEL, Avantel, ECIL, SAIL, Keltron, Advanced Weapons & Equipment India Ltd, etc. Further, the ship is built with completely indigenous steel (DMR 249A). The induction of these survey vessels underscores the growing maritime interests and capabilities of the nation, the source added.
It is worth highlighting that the main role of the INS Nirdeshak is to conduct hydrographic surveys of ports, harbours, coastal areas and deep seas amongst others, assisting the Indian Navy's efforts toward safe marine navigation.
Moreover, the SVL project, under which four ships like the Nirdeshak are being built, has employed a workforce of about 1600 workers annually within the shipyard, and also nearly 10,000 personnel per year as outsource manpower for ancillary industries.
"The fact that 63 out of 64 ships and submarines are being built in Indian Shipyards is a major milestone in strengthening indigenous defense production. This decision not only contributes to national security but also generates a substantial economic impact by boosting the domestic defense industry," the source highlighted.
Meanwhile, Commander (Retd) Rahul Verma, a veteran of the Indian Navy underscored that the Indian Navy's shipbuilding strategy is a cornerstone of its broader vision for national development. Its approach centers on Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India), promoting indigenous defense manufacturing through the "Make in India" initiative.
He explained that this strategy has several key pillars:
Indigenous Ship Design & Development: The Indian Navy, through organizations like the Directorate of Naval Design (DND), has developed world-class designs for warships, submarines, and support vessels, enabling India to reduce reliance on foreign suppliers.
Public-Private Partnerships: Shipbuilding is not limited to public sector yards like Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) and Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE). The Navy actively collaborates with private sector companies, fostering competition, innovation, and efficiency. Various startups like Sagar Defence, Tardid Technology and others are also being supported to innovate.
Technological Advancements: The shipbuilding process includes advanced technology transfers, such as integrating combat management systems, sensors, and propulsion systems, boosting India’s defense ecosystem.
Employment Generation & Skill Development: Shipbuilding directly employs thousands while supporting ancillary industries, including steel manufacturing, electronics, and engineering services. Training programs ensure a highly skilled maritime workforce.
Strategic Maritime Capability: By building ships domestically, India enhances its maritime security, ensuring uninterrupted fleet development even amid global supply chain disruptions.
Additionally, Verma underlined that naval shipbuilding has played a crucial role in India's economic development.
"The shipbuilding industry stimulates the production of critical materials like steel, electronics, and precision machinery, reinforcing India's manufacturing base. Besides, India has become a notable exporter of warships and patrol vessels to friendly countries, generating foreign exchange and strengthening geopolitical ties," the military pundit pointed out.
On top of that, developing indigenous ships has driven technological innovation, benefiting civilian sectors like commercial shipping, oceanographic research, and renewable energy systems, Verma noted.
"In essence, the Indian Navy's shipbuilding strategy goes beyond military strength, serving as a catalyst for technological advancement, industrial growth, and national self-reliance," he concluded.
