The Indian Navy achieved a significant milestone on Monday with the launch of 'Samarthak', the first indigenously built Multi-Purpose Vessel (MPV), at the L&T Shipyard in Kattupalli, near Chennai. The vessel, whose name translates to "Supporter," was launched by Mrs. Shashi Tripathi, President of the Navy Welfare and Wellness Association (NWWA), in a ceremony presided over by Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Chief of the Naval Staff.
This launch marks a major step forward in India's pursuit of self-reliance in defense shipbuilding, aligning with the government's "Aatmanirbhar Bharat" and "Make in India" initiatives. The contract for the construction of two MPVs was signed between the Ministry of Defence and L&T Shipyard on March 25, 2022.
Admiral Tripathi emphasized the critical role these MPVs will play in enhancing the Indian Navy's capabilities. "These vessels provide our forward-deployed units with the necessary mobility, flexibility and versatility to project power and presence, allowing us to achieve desired effects at the time and place of our choosing," he stated.
Samarthak is a 106-meter long, 16.8-meter wide vessel capable of achieving a maximum speed of 15 knots. It has been designed for a multitude of roles, including:
- Towing ships: Providing support to other naval vessels.
- Target launching and recovery: Assisting in naval exercises and weapons testing.
- Operating unmanned autonomous vehicles: Expanding the Navy's capabilities in underwater and surface drone operations.
- Trial platform for indigenous weapons and sensors: Facilitating the development and testing of new naval technologies.
- Mine countermeasures (MCM): Enhancing the Navy's ability to detect and neutralize mines.
The launch of 'Samarthak' underscores the growing capabilities of Indian shipyards and the commitment of the Indian Navy to indigenous defense production. The second MPV in this project is currently under construction and is expected to be launched in the near future.
