SHIPS IN NEWS : TALWAR, INS NIRDESHAK

Context

Indian Navy’s frontline stealth frigate, INS Talwar, arrived at Simon’s Town, South Africa, to participate in the eighth edition of IBSAMAR.

(It is a joint multinational maritime exercise among the Indian, Brazilian, and South African Navy).

Aim

The exercise aims to enhance interoperability and strengthen cohesion between the three navies.

The broad concept is based on Blue Water Naval Warfare, encompassing the dimensions of Surface and Anti-Air Warfare.

Country of Origin

Russia.

Design Based On

Krivak III-class (Project 1135).

Developed Version

Admiral Grigorovich-class frigate for the Russian Navy.

Total Ships Built

6 (in two batches), 4 more under construction.

Preceded by

Brahmaputra-class frigates.

Features

Semi-stealth features, improved armament.

First Contract Signed

17 November 1997

First Ship Delivered

INS Talwar in May 2002.

Other Ships Delivered

INS Trishul (November 2002), INS Tabar (May 2003)

Second Contract Signed

14 July 2006

Missile System in Batch II

BrahMos supersonic anti-ship cruise missile instead of Klub-N/3M54TE missile system.

Context

INS Nirdeshak is the second in a series of four such vessels being constructed by GRSE, with the first delivered to the Navy 10 months ago in December 2023.

Name

Nirdeshak (Second in a series of four Survey Vessels - Large).

Builder

Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE).

Speed

In excess of 18 knots.

Propulsion

Two marine diesel engines with fixed-pitch propellers.

Construction Technology

‘Integrated Construction’ technology.

Regulations Compliance

Built as per provisions and regulations of Classification Society (IRS).

Hydrographic Equipment

Data acquisition and processing system, autonomous underwater vehicle, remotely operated vehicle, DGPS long range positioning systems, digital side scan sonar, etc.

Indigenous Content

Over 80% by cost.

Significance

Reflects the collaboration of stakeholders, MSMEs, and Indian industry to enhance maritime prowess in the Indian Ocean Region.

 PRACTICE QUESTION

Q.India has made significant strides in its shipbuilding industry, aiming to become a global maritime power. Discuss the factors driving this growth and the challenges faced by the Indian shipbuilding industry to enhance its competitiveness further. (250 words)