Karwar, October 16: Vice-President C. P. Radhakrishnan on Friday commissioned INS Samarthak, the Indian Navy’s first indigenous multi-purpose vessel, at Karwar in Karnataka, marking a milestone in the development of domestic defence manufacturing and naval capabilities.
The vessel has more than 75 per cent indigenous content, reflecting the growing role of Indian industry in defence production, the Vice-President said while addressing the commissioning ceremony.
He said self-reliance in defence was contributing to India’s strategic autonomy and the vision of a developed and self-reliant nation.
INS Samarthak will serve as a platform for trials and evaluation of next-generation weapons, sensors and emerging technologies. Its roles will also include maritime surveillance and reconnaissance, offshore patrolling, launching and recovering targets, supporting unmanned systems and conducting humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations.
The vessel is expected to help the Navy test and assess indigenous technologies and adapt to emerging operational requirements.
The Vice-President commended the Indian Navy for safeguarding the country’s sovereignty and maritime interests, as well as its role in anti-piracy operations, evacuating Indian citizens and providing humanitarian assistance during disasters. He also highlighted the Navy’s contribution as a security partner in the Indian Ocean Region.
Recalling India’s maritime history, Radhakrishnan referred to the naval traditions of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and the Chola dynasty, which extended India’s maritime influence across the Indian Ocean and Southeast Asia.
He also underscored Karwar’s strategic importance, citing its deep natural harbour and proximity to the Arabian Sea. The ongoing development of naval infrastructure under Project Seabird, he said, was strengthening the Navy’s ability to base and sustain ships and submarines while creating economic opportunities for the region.
The Vice-President acknowledged the contribution of Larsen & Toubro (L&T) to the vessel and highlighted the role of shipyards, defence public sector undertakings, the Defence Research and Development Organisation, academic institutions, micro, small and medium enterprises, and startups in strengthening India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem.
Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, senior naval officers, Ministry of Defence officials and representatives of L&T attended the commissioning ceremony. (PIB)
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