By Staff Correspondent
On 7 March 2023, the Ministry of Defence announced a landmark contract signing with Larsen & Turbo Limited for the acquisition of three Cadet Training Ships (CTS) at an approximate cost of Rs. 3100 Crores. These ships will be designed, developed, and constructed entirely by L&T Shipyard at Kattupally, Chennai.
The CTS vessels will serve as essential training platforms for officer cadets at sea, catering to the future manning and operational requirements of the Indian Navy. Additionally, the ships have the capacity to extend training to cadets from friendly neighbouring countries, a move that could strengthen international relations and maritime cooperation in the region.
With the majority of the equipment and systems sourced from indigenous manufacturers, the CTS ships will be proud flag bearers of the AatmaNirbharBharat, Make in India, and Make for the World initiatives of the defence ministry. These programs promote the use of locally sourced materials and the development of equipment and systems installed onboard ships, contributing to the growth of the Indian economy.
The shipbuilding industry is strategically important and has the potential to increase the contribution of the industry and services sector to the national GDP. Currently, shipbuilding projects underway at various shipyards are poised to provide essential economic stimulus to indigenous industries. The investment in shipbuilding will be ploughed back into the economy through the sourcing of new materials, equipment, and systems onboard ships, as well as other essential manpower services.
The acquisition of three CTS’s marks a significant milestone for the Indian Navy, and it is seen as a testament to the government’s commitment to fostering a robust and self-reliant domestic shipbuilding industry.
