SOURCE: AFI
Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) is poised for a significant leap in water jet propulsion technology, thanks to a recent Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Kongsberg Finland. This collaboration holds immense potential for the “Make in India” initiative and future Indian naval and coast guard vessels.
Presently, most high-speed Indian Navy and Coast Guard ships rely on imported water jet propulsion systems. With the “Make in India” initiative gaining traction, increasing domestic production of crucial marine equipment is essential. Water jets, being extensively used in these vessels, become a prime target for indigenous development.
The MoU with Kongsberg Finland paves the way for a potential license agreement, enabling GRSE to manufacture water jets in India. This collaboration presents a tremendous opportunity to not only fulfill domestic requirements but also cater to potential future exports.
While specific figures are unavailable at this stage, the upcoming projects offer a glimpse of the vast potential. The Indian Navy alone has plans for 120 Fast Interceptor Craft (FICs) and a 22 Water Jet Fast Attack Craft (FAC) project. Additionally, the Indian Coast Guard has an 18 Fast Patrol Vessel project on the horizon. These projects are all expected to materialize within the next 3-5 years, coinciding with the potential realization of the GRSE-Kongsberg collaboration.
The GRSE-Kongsberg MoU signifies a significant step towards solidifying India’s position in the maritime defense sector. By leveraging this collaboration and capitalizing on the upcoming projects, India can achieve self-sufficiency in water jet technology and propel its shipbuilding industry forward.