New Frigate, Destroyer To Leapfrog Indian Navy Surface Capability

Indian Navy’s surface capability is hovering for a quantum jump with the induction of Kolkata (P15 A Destroyer) and Kamorta (P 28 ASW Frigate), said Admiral R K Dhowan on Thursday.

Speaking at the bi-annual Naval Commanders' Conference at New Delhi held from 24-26 Jun 2014, Admiral Dhowan discussed the self-reliance program of the Navy and indigenization of platforms, weapons, sensors and equipment, through public as well as private sectors.

The CNS discussed the progressive induction of P 8I LRMR (Long-Range Maritime Reconnaissance) aircraft, commissioning of ALH squadron and induction of AJT aircraft and on the ongoing LCA (Navy) project.

Capability gaps resulting from the ageing submarine fleet, shortage of integral helicopters in the fleets and the need for Mine Counter Measure Vessels (MCMVs) were also discussed.