India’s first Multi-Purpose Vessel (MPV) ship, named ‘Samarthak,’ was launched at L&T Shipyard, Kattupalli, on October 14, 2024. The project marks a major milestone for Indian shipbuilding, with the ship built by L&T Shipyard for the Indian Navy. The launch ceremony was led by Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi, Chief of Naval Staff, and the vessel was officially launched by Mrs. Shashi Tripathi, President of the Naval Wives Welfare Association. This development supports the government’s ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ and ‘Make in India’ initiatives.
Overview of the MPV Project
The Multi-Purpose Vessel (MPV) project aims to strengthen India’s maritime capabilities with advanced naval ships designed for multiple roles. A contract for building two MPVs was signed between the Ministry of Defence and L&T Shipyard on March 25, 2022. These vessels are built for various tasks, including towing ships, testing indigenous weapons, and operating uncrewed vehicles.
Features and Capabilities of ‘Samarthak’
The MPV Samarthak has several advanced capabilities, including:
- Towing Ships: Assisting other ships during emergencies or maritime operations.
- Launching and Recovering Targets: Handling targets used for naval training and exercises.
- Operating Uncrewed Vehicles: Deploying autonomous, uncrewed naval vehicles for various missions.
- Weapon Testing Platform: Acting as a trial platform for testing new weapons and sensors.
| Specification | Details |
| Length | 106 meters |
| Width | 16.8 meters |
| Maximum Speed | 15 knots (approx. 27 km/h) |
Importance of the Launch
The launch of Samarthak highlights India’s growing expertise in indigenous shipbuilding. It reflects the Indian Navy’s commitment to boosting self-reliance in defense, furthering the goals of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat.’ This vessel will enhance the Navy’s operational capabilities, ensuring better maritime security and contributing to national defense.
Multi-Purpose Vessels (MPVs) in Modern Navies
MPVs are versatile ships capable of carrying diverse cargo, handling heavy loads, and supporting offshore operations. They are essential for both military and commercial purposes, including humanitarian missions and disaster relief. MPVs’ flexibility in handling various tasks makes them critical assets for modern navies.
First Multi-Purpose Vessel ‘Samarthak’- News Summary
- India launched its first Multi-Purpose Vessel (MPV) ‘Samarthak’ at L&T Shipyard, Kattupalli, on October 14, 2024.
- The ship was launched by Mrs. Shashi Tripathi and the ceremony was led by Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi.
- Samarthak is part of a project started in March 2022 to enhance the Indian Navy’s capabilities.
- The ship is designed for multiple roles, including towing, weapon testing, and operating uncrewed vehicles.
- It aligns with the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ and ‘Make in India’ campaigns, strengthening India’s indigenous shipbuilding industry.
Also Read Latest Current Affairs 2024
The MPV Samarthak is India’s first indigenous multi-purpose naval ship, designed to enhance the operational capabilities of the Indian Navy.
Samarthak is designed for tasks such as towing ships, testing weapons, operating uncrewed vehicles, and launching naval targets.
The MPV project supports India’s ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ and ‘Make in India’ initiatives, showcasing the country’s growing self-reliance in defense manufacturing.
The contract for building two MPVs was signed between India’s Ministry of Defence and L&T Shipyard on March 25, 2022.
The MPV Samarthak is 106 meters long, 16.8 meters wide, and can achieve a maximum speed of 15 knots.