The Indian Navy commissioned INS Samarthak, the first vessel in its Multi-Purpose Vessel (MPV) class, on October 16, 2026. The commissioning ceremony was presided over by Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan in the presence of Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Krishna Swaminathan and senior defence officials.

Designed and constructed by Larsen & Toubro (L&T) Shipyard, INS Samarthak marks a significant milestone in India’s indigenous shipbuilding capabilities and highlights the growing role of the domestic private sector in naval defence manufacturing.

The vessel features more than 75% indigenous content and incorporates modular construction and pre-outfitting techniques to optimise construction processes and timelines. The project has also contributed to employment generation, domestic capability development and economic activity within India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem.

Named Samarthak, meaning “The Proponent”, the vessel has been designed as a versatile platform capable of supporting a wide range of operational and developmental activities. Its capabilities include maritime surveillance and reconnaissance, offshore patrolling, and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations.

The commissioning is expected to strengthen the Indian Navy’s ability to test and evaluate indigenous sensors, weapons and other systems developed by domestic industry. The vessel will also support training and developmental activities, enabling the Navy to assess new technologies and equipment under different operational conditions.

INS Samarthak’s induction reflects India’s continued focus on strengthening maritime security, enhancing operational preparedness and promoting self-reliance in defence manufacturing under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative. Its multi-purpose design is intended to support the Navy’s evolving requirements amid an increasingly complex maritime security environment.