The keel-laying ceremony for the third Cadet Training Ship, designated Yard 18005, took place on December 30, 2024, at M/s L&T Shipyard in Kattupalli. The event was presided over by Rear Admiral Ravi Kumar Dhingra, Flag Officer Tamil Nadu and Puducherry Area, alongside Rear Admiral G.K. Harish (Retd), Head of the Shipbuilding Business at L&T, and other senior officials from the Indian Navy and L&T.
A Major Step in Indigenous Shipbuilding
This ceremony marks another milestone in the Indian Navy’s commitment to advancing indigenous shipbuilding, aligning with the Government of India’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India initiatives.
Contract Details and Purpose
The contract for the indigenous design and construction of three Cadet Training Ships was finalized between the Ministry of Defence (MoD) and M/s L&T on March 7, 2023. These ships are specifically designed to provide comprehensive sea training for officer cadets following their foundational training onshore. Additionally, the facilities on these ships will cater to cadets from friendly foreign nations, enhancing international maritime cooperation.
Vision for the Future
The keel-laying of Yard 18005 is a significant step toward achieving the Long Term Integrated Perspective Plan (LTIPP 2012-27), which envisions a fleet of three Cadet Training Ships for the Indian Navy. This initiative not only bolsters the Navy’s operational training capabilities but also reinforces India’s self-reliance in defense manufacturing.
The event highlights the Indian Navy’s ongoing commitment to fostering indigenous capabilities while strengthening its fleet to train future naval leaders.
