Chennai, February 17, 2026: The Indian Navy marked a major milestone in indigenous shipbuilding with the launch of Yard 18003, christened Krishna, the first of three Cadet Training Ships (CTS) under construction at L&T Shipbuilding, Kattupalli, near Chennai.
The vessel was formally launched on February 16 in keeping with established naval traditions. Mrs Anupama Chauhan performed the ceremonial launch in the presence of General Anil Chauhan, Chief of Defence Staff.
Senior officials from the Indian Armed Forces and representatives from L&T Shipbuilding attended the event, highlighting the importance of the project for India’s maritime capabilities.
Indigenous Design and Construction
Krishna has been indigenously designed and built by L&T at its Kattupalli shipyard. The project reflects the growing capability of Indian shipyards to construct complex naval platforms with advanced training and operational features.
The ship is scheduled for formal delivery to the Indian Navy by the end of 2026. Once commissioned, it will play a vital role in strengthening practical sea training for future naval officers.
Training the Next Generation of Officers
The Cadet Training Ships are designed to provide comprehensive sea training to Officer Cadets after completing their basic training ashore. The platform will offer real-time exposure to navigation, seamanship, and operational procedures in open waters.
Importantly, the ships will also train women officer cadets, reflecting the Navy’s commitment to greater gender inclusion. Additionally, cadets from Friendly Foreign Countries will undergo sea training aboard these vessels, enhancing defence diplomacy and international cooperation.
Boost to Aatmanirbhar Bharat
The launch of Krishna represents another significant step in the Indian Navy’s journey toward self-reliance in defence production. Indigenous shipbuilding has become a cornerstone of India’s maritime strategy, reducing dependence on foreign suppliers.
The project aligns closely with the Government of India’s vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat and the Make in India initiative, which aim to promote domestic manufacturing and technological innovation in the defence sector.
Over the past decade, India has significantly expanded its indigenous shipbuilding capacity, with several frontline warships, submarines, and support vessels being constructed in Indian shipyards.
Strategic Significance
Training ships play a foundational role in shaping naval leadership. By providing structured exposure to life at sea, they prepare cadets for operational deployments on frontline warships and other naval platforms.
The introduction of three dedicated Cadet Training Ships will enhance the Navy’s capacity to train a growing number of officers in line with India’s expanding maritime responsibilities in the Indian Ocean Region.