Indian Navy Launches 'Samarthak,' First Indigenous Multi-Purpose Vessel, Boosting Maritime Capabilities

The Indian Navy has taken a major step in its journey towards self-reliance with the launch of 'Samarthak,' the first indigenous Multi-Purpose Vessel (MPV), built at the L&T Shipyard in Kattupalli, near Chennai. The name 'Samarthak,' meaning "Supporter," captures the essence of the vessel’s multifaceted role in the Navy's operations. The launch ceremony, which took place on Monday, was graced by Mrs. Shashi Tripathi, President of the Navy Welfare and Wellness Association (NWWA), with Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, presiding over the event.

This significant milestone is part of India’s broader "Aatmanirbhar Bharat" and "Make in India" initiatives, aimed at enhancing self-reliance in defense production. The contract for constructing two MPVs was awarded to L&T Shipyard on March 25, 2022. These vessels represent a leap in India's shipbuilding capabilities and demonstrate a continued commitment to reducing reliance on foreign imports for defense assets.

At 106 meters in length and 16.8 meters in width, Samarthak is designed to perform a wide variety of tasks that are crucial to naval operations. The ship can achieve a top speed of 15 knots, making it an agile and efficient vessel for its intended roles. Its versatility stems from the array of tasks it can undertake, ranging from towing naval vessels to supporting advanced naval trials.

One of the critical functions of Samarthak is its ability to serve as a trial platform for indigenous weapons and sensors. This capability is pivotal for advancing homegrown technologies, enabling the Indian Navy to test new defense systems in a real-world maritime environment. Additionally, the vessel will enhance operational flexibility by handling support roles that would typically occupy larger warships. This frees up frontline vessels to focus on more demanding missions, optimizing the Navy’s combat readiness.

Samarthak is also equipped for mine countermeasures (MCM), an essential function that boosts the Navy’s capacity to detect and neutralize underwater mines, ensuring the safety of both military and commercial shipping lanes. The vessel’s capability to launch and recover targets is another valuable feature, particularly for naval exercises and weapons testing. Moreover, the integration of unmanned autonomous vehicles expands the scope of operations to include advanced underwater and surface drone activities, reflecting the growing emphasis on modern naval warfare.

The introduction of Samarthak into the Indian Navy's fleet is not only a testament to India’s growing defense manufacturing capabilities but also a significant boost to the Navy’s operational reach. The vessel provides mobility, flexibility, and enhanced support to forward-deployed units, giving the Navy the ability to project power at critical points.

This launch is part of a larger vision for modernizing the Indian Navy, which includes an ongoing commitment to indigenous shipbuilding. The second MPV under this project is already under construction and is expected to join the fleet soon, further enhancing India’s maritime strength.

As Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi highlighted during the launch, "These vessels provide our forward-deployed units with the necessary mobility, flexibility, and versatility to project power and presence." Samarthak's launch is a proud moment for India, demonstrating the strength of its defense industry and the Navy’s forward-looking approach to maritime security.