Context: Recently, the second multi-purpose Vessel (MPV)UTKARSH”, being built by M/s L&T Shipyard for the Indian Navy, was launched at L&T, Kattupalli, Chennai

  • The ship has been named ‘Utkarsh’ which means ‘Superior in Conduct’ and is synonymous with the multi-dimensional role envisaged for the platform.
  • The contract for two multi-purpose Vessels (UTKARSH and SAMARTHAK) was signed between the Ministry of Defence and M/s L&T Shipyard.
  • This endeavour is in line with Indian Navy efforts towards Indigenous shipbuilding and the launch of this vessel by a private Indian shipyard.
  • It highlights the country’s significant advancements in indigenous shipbuilding, aligning with the Government of India’s vision for Aatmanirbhar Bharat and the Make in India initiative.
  • This achievement underscores the nation’s growing capabilities in self-reliance and technological innovation within the defense sector.

Features:

  • The vessel is capable of towing ships.
  • It can launch and recover various targets, and operate unmanned autonomous vehicles.
  • The vessels are designed to achieve a maximum speed of 15 knots
  • The MPVs are highly specialised and play multiple roles, including serving as trial platforms, for the development of next-generation weapons and sensors.
  • It will perform maritime surveillance, humanitarian assistance, and combat sea pollution, besides taking up launch and recovery of surface and aerial assets, etc.
  • Specifications:
    • Length: 107 meters
    • Width: 18.6 meters
    • Displacement: Over 3,750 tonnes
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