The Indian Navy is set to receive a significant boost with 45 warships currently under construction and slated for delivery within the next three to four years. Vice Admiral Sanjay Vatsyan, the Navy Vice Chief, made this announcement during the launch of the next-generation offshore patrol vessel (NGOPV) 'Sanghamitra' in Kolkata. The vessel is the first of four such ships being built by the defence public sector undertaking Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) Ltd.
Approval for 195 More Naval Vessels
Vice Admiral Vatsyan further revealed that the Navy has received in-principle approval for 195 additional naval vessels as part of future vessel programmes. This includes Acceptance of Necessity for 69 ships, six submarines, and 120 fast interceptor crafts. He emphasized that this presents a substantial opportunity for the entire defence building ecosystem to deliver quality products on time, meeting the capabilities required by the Indian Navy.
Expansion Plans and Self-Reliance
With a strong push towards self-reliance in warship production, the Navy has expanded its fleet to around 140 vessels. It is firmly on track to achieve its goal of 155 to 160 ships by 2030, with plans to further increase the fleet to 200 warships and submarines by 2035. This expansion is aimed at securing the Indo-Pacific region amid the growing Chinese threat and transitioning into a dominant blue-water Navy.
Features of NGOPV 'Sanghamitra'
The NGOPV 'Sanghamitra', launched by Sarita Vatsayan, wife of Vice Admiral Vatsayan, is significantly larger and more capable than conventional offshore patrol vessels. It boasts enhanced endurance and firepower. The vessel is designed to operate in coastal waters for protecting offshore assets, conducting maritime interdiction, and performing visit, board, search, and seizure operations. Measuring approximately 113 metres in length and 14.6 metres in width, with a displacement of 3,000 tonnes, the ship has an endurance of 8,500 nautical miles at a cruising speed of 14 knots and can achieve a maximum speed of 23 knots.
Commodore PR Hari (Retd), Chairman and Managing Director of GRSE, highlighted the technological advances incorporated into the shipyard's offerings, which have enhanced capabilities. He stated, 'We are kickstarting 2026-27 with the launch of this vessel, and this year too will see multiple launches and deliveries.'
