Indian Navy’s First Next-Gen Missile: Cochin Shipyard Ltd (CSL) has started constructing the Next Generation Missile Vessels (NGMVs) for the Indian Navy, marking a significant step toward building advanced, weapon-intensive ships.
The steel-cutting ceremony, a key milestone in the shipbuilding process, was held on 16 December 2024. It was officiated by Commodore S. Parthiban, Warship Production Superintendent of the Warship Overseeing Team (WOT), according to a statement from CSL.
In March 2023, CSL signed a contract with the Indian Navy to construct six NGMVs at a cost of ₹9,804 crore. The first vessel is set for delivery by March 2027, with the remaining ships to follow over the next few years.
HM Shah asks security forces to coordinate to eliminate Naxalism by March 2026
The NGMVs are designed to be high-speed vessels equipped with cutting-edge technology and advanced weapon systems, strengthening India’s defense capabilities and commitment to indigenous manufacturing.
Indian Navy’s First Next-Gen Missile: Overview
- Surface-to-Surface Missile Systems: These provide advanced offensive capabilities to target enemy warships, merchant vessels, and land installations.
- Anti-Missile Defence Systems: These systems ensure strong protection against aerial threats.
- Radars and Sensors: Equipped with advanced air surveillance and fire control systems to support operations.
These ships will be essential to anti-surface warfare and maritime strike missions. According to Swarajyamag, they will also be essential for providing sea denial at strategic choke points. Additionally, they are designed for defensive roles, such as safeguarding offshore development areas and local naval defense.
The NGMVs will integrate state-of-the-art systems, including:
- Integrated Platform Management Systems: These systems will allow for efficient monitoring and management of ship operations.
- Propulsion and Auxiliary Machinery: This will ensure the vessels perform optimally and achieve high speeds.
- Damage Control Equipment: These systems will enhance the ship’s safety and resilience in combat situations.
INS Nirdeshak: Navy’s Latest Survey Ship, to Be Commissioned in Vizag on Dec 18
Each NGMV will carry a crew of 80 personnel and achieve a maximum speed of 33 knots, further enhancing its strategic advantage.
“The primary role of the NGMVs will be to provide offensive capabilities against enemy warships, merchant vessels, and land targets. They will support maritime strike and anti-surface warfare operations while serving as a potent tool for sea denial at choke points,” emphasized the CSL statement.
