The Indian Ministry of Defense has granted Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for several major naval procurements aimed at strengthening the operational capabilities of the Indian Navy.
The approved acquisitions include landing platform docks (LPDs), 30mm naval surface guns (NSGs), advanced lightweight torpedoes (ALWTs), electro-optical infra-red search and track systems, and smart ammunition for the 76mm super rapid gun mount.
According to the Ministry, the procurement of LPDs will enhance the navy’s amphibious warfare capabilities, enabling joint operations with the Indian Army and Indian Air Force. The vessels are expected to improve the service’s ability to carry out peacekeeping missions, humanitarian assistance, and disaster relief operations in the region.
The ALWT, indigenously developed by the Naval Science & Technological Laboratory (NSTL) under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), is designed to engage conventional, nuclear, and midget submarines.
Meanwhile, the acquisition of the 30mm NSG will enhance the Indian Navy’s and Indian Coast Guard’s ability to conduct low-intensity maritime operations and anti-piracy missions, reinforcing maritime security in coastal and international waters.
These developments form part of India’s ongoing efforts to modernize its naval forces and promote indigenous defense manufacturing under the ‘Make in India’ initiative.
As part of the initiative, the navy recently took delivery of DSC A20, the first indigenously designed and constructed diving support craft built by Titagarh Rail Systems Limited (TRSL). DSC A20 is designed to undertake diving operations in coastal waters and is fitted with modern diving equipment. The ship has a catamaran hull, with a displacement of approximately 380 tons.