SOURCE: IDRW.ORG
India’s state-owned shipbuilding giant, Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL), is actively expanding its footprint in Southeast Asia, particularly targeting nations like Vietnam and the Philippines for defence cooperation. This move aligns with India’s broader strategy to position itself as a significant exporter and manufacturer of defence products, leveraging its expertise in shipbuilding and naval engineering.
Negotiations are currently in progress with the Vietnam People’s Navy (VPN) for submarine refits, showcasing HSL’s capabilities beyond domestic borders. This initiative not only strengthens bilateral defence ties but also underscores HSL’s technical prowess in handling complex naval projects. Similarly, HSL is exploring potential opportunities in the Philippines, aiming to extend its services and partnerships in the region.
Located in Visakhapatnam, HSL has historically been a pivotal player in India’s naval construction, contributing significantly to the Indian Navy’s fleet. From constructing the first ship built indigenously for the Indian Navy to modern-day advancements, HSL has a storied legacy. One of its notable recent achievements includes the delivery of the Ocean Surveillance Ship (OSS) ‘INS Dhruv’ in 2020, which marks India’s first nuclear missile-tracking vessel, enhancing the country’s naval surveillance capabilities.
HSL’s engagement in international repair and refit projects is not new; the shipyard has previously attracted international business by servicing foreign vessels. This experience is crucial as HSL ventures into new markets, offering solutions for submarine refits and potentially other naval services. The strategic outreach to Southeast Asia is part of a calculated effort to diversify India’s defence exports and solidify its standing as a key player in global defence manufacturing.
The push towards international collaborations is indicative of India’s broader geopolitical strategy in the Indo-Pacific region, where maintaining and enhancing naval capabilities of friendly nations could serve mutual strategic interests, especially in countering regional challenges. This initiative by HSL not only promotes the “Make in India” campaign but also sets a precedent for Indian defence enterprises to seek global markets for their advanced technological offerings.
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