INS Samarthak Commissioned at Karwar, Marks Milestone in India’s Defence Self Reliance
Vice President C P Radhakrishnan says the indigenous vessel will support testing of advanced weapons, sensors and unmanned systems
Karwar (Fikrokhabar News): The Indian Navy commissioned INS Samarthak, an indigenously built multi purpose vessel, at the Karwar naval base in Karnataka on Friday, October 16. Vice President C P Radhakrishnan attended the ceremony and described the commissioning as a significant milestone in India’s efforts to achieve self reliance in defence manufacturing.
Built by Larsen and Toubro at its Kattupalli shipyard in Tamil Nadu, INS Samarthak has more than 75 per cent indigenous content. It is the first of four multi purpose vessels planned under the programme.
The vessel will serve as a platform for testing and evaluating next generation weapons, sensors and emerging technologies. It is also designed to support maritime surveillance, offshore patrolling, unmanned system operations, and the launch and recovery of targets.
Addressing the gathering, Radhakrishnan said India’s growing shipbuilding and technological capabilities would strengthen the Navy’s ability to respond to emerging maritime security challenges. He emphasised that a dedicated platform for trials and evaluation would help translate indigenous innovations into operational capabilities.
The Vice President also highlighted the Indian Navy’s role in safeguarding the country’s maritime interests and serving as a first responder in the Indian Ocean region through anti piracy operations, evacuations and humanitarian assistance during emergencies.
He noted that Karwar’s deep natural harbour and strategic location along the Arabian Sea make it an important centre for India’s maritime security. He also referred to the ongoing development of naval infrastructure under Project Seabird, which is intended to strengthen the Navy’s capacity to accommodate and support ships and submarines.
Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Krishna Swaminathan described the commissioning as an important step towards self reliance. He also highlighted the significance of private sector participation in the construction of major naval vessels.
The commissioning of INS Samarthak reflects India’s efforts to expand domestic defence manufacturing and strengthen cooperation between the Navy and the country’s shipbuilding industry.