Samarthak: Indian Navy's Advanced Multi-Purpose Vessel Ship

The Indian Navy has launched its first Multi-Purpose Vessel, 'Samarthak', on October 14, 2024. The vessel, designed by L&T Shipyard, has multi-role capabilities including towing operations.

Launch and Project Overview

First Multi-Purpose Vessel (MPV) launched on October 14, 2024
Ceremony held at L&T Shipyard, Kattupalli, Chennai
Named 'Samarthak' meaning 'Supporter' in Hindi
Launched by Mrs. Shashi Tripathi, NWWA President
Part of two-vessel project contracted on March 25, 2022
Ceremony presided by Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Chief of Naval Staff

Technical Specifications and Capabilities

Vessel dimensions:

- Length: 106 meters
- Width: 16.8 meters
- Maximum speed: 15 knots

Multi-role capabilities include:

- Towing operations for other ships
- Launch and recovery of various targets
- Operation of unmanned autonomous vehicles
- Platform for testing indigenous weapons
- Maritime surveillance and patrolling
- Humanitarian assistance operations
Displacement over 3,750 tonnes
Designed and constructed in-house by L&T

Strategic Significance

Strengthens India's indigenous shipbuilding capabilities
Aligns with government initiatives:
- 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' (Self-Reliant India)
- 'Make in India' program
Demonstrates private sector participation in defense manufacturing
Part of L&T's larger naval projects:
- Three cadet training ships under construction
- Six additional defense vessels
- US Naval Ship repair capabilities
Represents significant milestone in naval modernization

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