Goa: Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL), one of India’s premier defence shipyards, achieved a historic milestone today with the successful launch of ‘Tavasya’, the second frigate of Project 1135.6 (Yard 1259). The launch signifies a major step forward in India’s self-reliance in warship construction, reinforcing the nation’s vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat in defence manufacturing.
The frigate was ceremonially launched by Neeta Seth, in the esteemed presence of Sanjay Seth, Raksha Rajya Mantri, who graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. Addressing the gathering, Raksha Rajya Mantri commended GSL’s extraordinary achievement of launching two complex, weapon-intensive frigates within just eight months, despite global supply chain challenges.
“This launch is a defining moment in India’s Naval history, showcasing our technological capabilities and unwavering commitment to self-reliance. The successful localization of critical components such as the BrahMos missile system, torpedo launchers, sonar, and auxiliary control systems demonstrates the growing resilience of India’s shipbuilding ecosystem. The launch of Tavasya is not just a step forward for the Indian Navy but a giant leap for India’s strategic defence ambitions,” the minister stated.
With a displacement exceeding 3,800 tons, Tavasya is designed to execute a wide range of offensive and defensive operations, ensuring strategic dominance in the Indian Ocean Region. Featuring advanced stealth capabilities, high endurance, and next-generation combat systems, the frigate significantly enhances the operational might of the Indian Navy. The minister reaffirmed India’s ambition to emerge as a global leader in warship exports, citing GSL’s pivotal role in defence exports and the Ministry of Defence’s vision to achieve ₹50,000 crore in defence exports by 2029.
Brajesh Kumar Upadhyay, Chairman and Managing Director, GSL, highlighted the shipyard’s evolution into a strategic defence asset for the nation. “The launch of Tavasya is the culmination of our relentless pursuit of excellence in indigenous warship building. From being a mid-sized shipbuilder, GSL has evolved into a leading defence yard, now delivering some of the most complex naval platforms. This project reaffirms our capability to execute high-end warship programs with precision, efficiency, and unmatched commitment to national security,” he stated.
The event witnessed the presence of distinguished dignitaries, including Sadanand Tanawade, MP-Rajya Sabha; Cap. Viriato Fernandes, MP-Lok Sabha; Vice Admiral SJ Singh, PVSM, AVSM, NM, FOC-in-C (WNC); Vice Admiral Rajaram Swaminathan, AVSM, NM, CWP&A; along with senior officials from the Ministry of Defence, the Indian Navy, and GSL personnel.
This marks a maiden attempt by an Indian shipyard to construct these complex platforms, which were previously imported in a fully built condition. With indigenous content exceeding 56%, far surpassing the 25% in similar ships built abroad, Tavasya exemplifies India’s engineering prowess, bolstering national security, and strengthening the country’s position in the global defence ecosystem. The formidable multi-role stealth frigate is designed to operate across the full spectrum of naval warfare—Air, Surface, and Sub-Surface—ensuring unmatched operational capability.
GSL’s impressive execution record has positioned it at the forefront of India’s defence shipbuilding industry. The shipyard has successfully launched seven ships within a year, underscoring its capability in delivering multi-domain, next-generation vessels. The successful launch of Tavasya reaffirms India’s commitment to indigenization in defence manufacturing and technological self-sufficiency in warship construction.