The Indian Navy is undergoing a significant expansion with around 45 ships currently under construction within the country, slated for delivery over the next three to four years. This announcement was made by Vice Admiral Sanjay Vatsyan, the Navy Vice Chief, during the launch of 'Sanghamitra' in Kolkata. 'Sanghamitra' is the first of four next-generation offshore patrol vessels (NGOPVs) built by the defence public sector undertaking Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) Ltd for the Navy.
Approval for 195 Naval Vessels
Vice Admiral Vatsyan also revealed on Wednesday that the Navy has received in-principle approval for 195 naval vessels as part of future vessel programmes. He stated, "We have got Acceptance of Necessity for another 69 ships, six submarines, and another 120 fast interceptor crafts. There is a very big opportunity for the entire defence building ecosystem to deliver quality products in time with the capabilities required by the Indian Navy."
Expansion Goals and Self-Reliance
With a strong push towards self-reliance in warship production, the Navy has expanded its fleet to approximately 140 vessels. It is firmly on track to achieve its target of 155 to 160 ships by 2030. Furthermore, the Navy plans to increase its fleet to 200 warships and submarines by 2035 to secure the Indo-Pacific region amid the growing Chinese threat and transition 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, according to officials. The vessel is designed to operate in coastal waters for the protection of offshore assets, maritime interdiction, and visit, board, search, and seizure operations.
Officials detailed that the vessel measures 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.
GRSE's Technological Advances
Commodore PR Hari (Retd), Chairman and Managing Director of GRSE, highlighted the technological advances made by the shipyard, which have contributed to enhanced capabilities. He said, "We are kickstarting 2026-27 with the launch of this vessel, and this year too will see multiple launches and deliveries."
