Steel Cutting Ceremony Marks Start of Construction for Indian Navy's NGMV Warships, Induction Expected from 2027

The Indian Navy's next generation of warships has begun to take shape. A steel cutting ceremony for the first Next Generation Missile Vessel (NGMV) was held at Cochin Shipyard on Monday, marking the official start of construction for these advanced warships.

Cochin Shipyard Limited secured the contract to build six NGMVs in March 2023. These vessels are expected to be inducted into the Indian Navy starting in 2027, significantly enhancing the Navy's combat capabilities and preparedness for future challenges.

"The construction of the ships reinforces India’s commitment to build a strong and modern Navy, capable of operating in the complex maritime environment of the Indian Ocean Region," the Defence Ministry said in a statement.

The NGMVs are designed for high speed and will be equipped with a formidable array of weapons and sensors, including:

• Surface-to-Surface Missile System: Providing offensive strike capabilities against enemy ships and targets on land.
• Anti-Missile Defence Systems: Enhancing the ship's ability to defend against incoming missile threats.
• Air Surveillance Radar: Enabling the detection and tracking of aircraft at long ranges.
• Fire Control Radars: Providing precise targeting information for the ship's weapon systems.

Importantly, all key equipment for the NGMVs is being indigenously developed and manufactured, underscoring India's growing technological capabilities and aligning with the government's "Aatmanirbhar Bharat" (Self-Reliant India) initiative.

This project represents a significant step forward in modernizing the Indian Navy. The NGMVs will play a crucial role in enhancing the Navy's ability to safeguard India's maritime interests and maintain peace and security in the Indian Ocean Region.