Indian Navy to commission indigenous multi-purpose vessel Samarthak on October 16

The vessel is expected to play an important role in the Navy`s future operations, serving as a versatile platform for a range of strategically significant maritime missions. PIC/BY SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

The Indian Navy is set to commission Samarthak, its first indigenous multi-purpose vessel, at Naval Base Karwar on October 16 (Friday).

Built by Larsen & Toubro Ltd under the Government of India's Make in India initiative, Samarthak is the first of four multi-purpose vessels being inducted into the Indian Navy.

The commissioning marks another milestone in India's efforts to achieve self-reliance in defence manufacturing. The vessel is expected to play an important role in the Navy's future operations, serving as a versatile platform for a range of strategically significant maritime missions.

Designed primarily for maritime surveillance and patrol, Samarthak can also undertake Low Intensity Maritime Operations (LIMO), serve as a target deployment and trials platform, and function as a mothership for unmanned and autonomous systems.

The vessel is also equipped for Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations. It can be converted into a limited-capability hospital ship and deployed for salvage operations.

Its integrated combat suite combines indigenous sensors, weapons and electronic systems designed to operate in challenging maritime environments.

The crest of Samarthak features an Indian elephant emerging from the waves, symbolising strength, intelligence and agility.

The ship's motto, 'Vijayartham Eknishthata' (Victory is Our Sole Aim), reflects its mission-oriented approach and commitment to operational excellence.

Indian Navy commissions INS Mangrol to boost anti-submarine warfare capabilities

The Indian Navy commissioned INS Mangrol, its third anti-submarine warfare shallow water craft (ASW-SWC), in Mumbai on Monday, strengthening its capability to detect and counter submarine threats in coastal waters where larger warships face operational limitations. Built by Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) in Kochi, the indigenous warship is designed to protect ports, harbours and coastal approaches while supporting wider fleet operations.

Vice Admiral Sanjay Vatsayan, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Naval Command, presided over the commissioning ceremony. He said the induction of INS Mangrol assumes particular significance amid rising geopolitical tensions and an increasingly contested maritime environment, reported news agency PTI.

"The seas are no longer merely avenues for trade and connectivity but also arenas of strategic competition, technological change and emerging security challenges," he said.

For India, with its extensive coastline, islands and vital maritime trade routes, maintaining a credible, responsive and combat-ready Navy is indispensable, Vatsayan added.