The Naval Science and Technological Laboratory (NSTL), a leading research division of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), has initiated a tender process to investigate the cavitation behavior of a 'corvette' hull. While the specific vessel remains unidentified, industry experts believe this research is linked to the Indian Navy's Next Generation Corvette (NGC) project.
The NGC program, estimated at Rs. 36,000 crore, aims to procure eight vessels and issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) in late May 2024. The contract is expected to be awarded to two shipyards in the following year, with the leading bidder securing five vessels. The Warship Design Bureau (WDB) has developed a new ~120-meter-long design for this project.
The NGC is anticipated to be a more potent warship than its predecessors, featuring an advanced sensor suite, a comprehensive weapons package, and provisions for an Anti Submarine Warfare Helicopter and support equipment. It will also be equipped with a towed array sonar, carry at least eight SSMs, and possess local area defense capabilities.
Understanding cavitation, the formation of vapor-filled cavities in liquids, is crucial for optimizing hull design, particularly for high-speed vessels. NSTL's research aims to mitigate the adverse effects of cavitation, such as noise, vibration, and erosion, which can impact a warship's stealth, endurance, and overall performance.
This development underscores India's growing indigenous shipbuilding capabilities and the Navy's commitment to acquiring cutting-edge platforms. As the NGC program progresses, it is expected to generate significant opportunities for the domestic defense industry.
