Chennai: In a significant step towards bolstering India’s maritime capabilities and promoting indigenous shipbuilding, the first ship of the Multi-Purpose Vessel (MPV) project, named Samarthak, was launched today at the L&T Shipyard in Kattupalli. The vessel, built by Larsen & Toubro (L&T) for the Indian Navy, marks another milestone in the country’s vision of self-reliance in defense manufacturing.
The ceremonial launch of Samarthak, which means “Supporter,” was carried out by Mrs. Shashi Tripathi, President of the Navy Wives Welfare Association (NWWA), in accordance with longstanding naval traditions. The event was presided over by Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Chief of the Naval Staff, who emphasized the ship’s multi-dimensional role in supporting various naval operations.
The vessel is the first of two Multi-Purpose Vessels being constructed under a contract signed between the Ministry of Defence and L&T Shipyard on March 25, 2022. These vessels are designed to perform a variety of tasks, including towing other ships, launching and recovering various targets, operating unmanned autonomous vehicles, and serving as a trial platform for indigenous weapons and sensors under development.
Samarthak is 106 meters long and 16.8 meters wide, with a top speed of 15 knots. Its versatility and capabilities align with the Navy’s goal of enhancing its operational readiness while supporting indigenous defense technology development.
Admiral Tripathi highlighted the significance of the launch, stating, “The Indian Navy remains committed to fostering indigenous shipbuilding capabilities. The launch of Samarthak by a private Indian shipyard demonstrates our continued strides toward realizing the government’s vision of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ and the ‘Make in India’ initiative.”