The second of two Multi-Purpose Vessels, built by M/s L&T Shipyard for the Indian Navy, was launched on January 13, 2025, at L&T Shipyard in Kattupalli, Chennai. The event was graced by Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh. Other dignitaries present included Vice Admiral B. Sivakumar, Controller Warship Production & Acquisition; Shri Jayant Damodar Patil, Advisor to CMD; Shri Arun Ramchandani, Head of M/s L&T PES; and senior officials from the Indian Navy and M/s L&T.
In accordance with maritime tradition, the ship was launched by Dr. Smt. Sushmita Misra Singh, spouse of Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh.
The vessel, named ‘Utkarsh,’ meaning ‘Superior in Conduct,’ reflects its multi-dimensional operational capabilities. The contract for the construction of the two Multi-Purpose Vessels was signed on March 25, 2022, between the Ministry of Defence and M/s L&T Shipyard. These vessels are designed to perform diverse roles, including towing ships, launching and recovering various targets, operating unmanned autonomous vehicles, and serving as trial platforms for indigenous weapons and sensors under development. With a length of 106 meters, the vessels can achieve a maximum speed of 15 knots.
This initiative aligns with the Indian Navy’s commitment to indigenous shipbuilding. The successful launch of this vessel by a private Indian shipyard highlights the nation’s progress in self-reliant shipbuilding, resonating with the Government of India’s vision for Aatmanirbhar Bharat and the Make in India initiative.
