India's maritime history is deeply intertwined with shipbuilding, dating back to the ancient dockyard at Lothal and the traditional dhow construction along its coasts. This legacy has evolved into a modern naval force striving for self-reliance, transitioning from a "Buyer's Navy" to a "Builder's Navy" and now, a "Designer's Navy". This journey signifies India's commitment to indigenous defence manufacturing, particularly in the crucial maritime domain.
The commissioning of INS Nilgiri in 1972, a Leander-class frigate built by Mazagon Dock (MDL) with UK assistance, marked a turning point. Today, India designs and constructs sophisticated platforms like the nuclear ballistic missile submarine INS Arighat and its soon-to-be-commissioned sister ship, INS Aridhaman. These vessels, equipped with K-4 missiles boasting a range exceeding 3,000 kilometers, are central to India's nuclear deterrence strategy, bolstering its strategic autonomy in the Indo-Pacific.
This progress is fueled by institutions like the Directorate of Naval Design (DND) and the Weapons and Systems Engineering Establishment (WESEE), responsible for innovations like the HUMSA-NG sonar system and the Rukmani satellite communication system. Collaborations with public and private sector entities like Bharat Electronics (BEL), Larsen & Toubro, and the Tata Group have created a dynamic defence manufacturing ecosystem.
Despite these strides, challenges remain. Acquiring high-end technologies like advanced submarine reactors and missile guidance systems often necessitates external collaboration. Financial constraints also impact the development of costly platforms. To address this, the Indian Navy has implemented a 15-year Indigenisation Plan and a 20-year Science and Technology Roadmap, promoting the "Buy and Make in India" model to bridge technological gaps.
Naval shipbuilding is a significant economic driver. Projects like the Advanced Technology Vessel (ATV) programme generate employment, foster skill development, and stimulate local industries. India's growing defence export potential, with platforms like the Scorpene-class submarines attracting global interest, further underscores the industry's importance.
While India's nuclear deterrent fleet is smaller than those of the US, China, and Russia, it is strategically tailored to regional needs. Submarines like INS Arighat and INS Aridhaman are vital for maintaining stability in the Indo-Pacific, particularly in the context of an increasingly assertive China.
Looking ahead, India prioritizes developing advanced SSBNs, next-generation hunter-killer submarines, and Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) technology. These initiatives, aligned with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of "Swavlamban" (self-reliance), are driven by public-private partnerships, streamlined procurement processes, and a focus on indigenous design.
As India approaches Navy Week, its "Builder's Navy" signifies more than just technological progress; it embodies strategic autonomy, economic growth, and national pride. The naval shipbuilding industry is not only securing India's maritime future but also positioning the nation as a responsible regional power and an emerging global defence leader.
