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SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

The Indian Navy has taken a significant step towards enhancing its naval capabilities by issuing Requests For Information (RFI)s to procure 12 Mine Counter Measure Vessels (MCMVs) from registered Indian Shipyards. This move is part of the Navy’s strategic vision to bolster its maritime security and countermeasure operations.

The MCMVs are set to be constructed in a phased manner over eight years, with the order split between L1 and L2 Shipyards in a ratio of 8:4. These vessels are envisioned to be versatile and capable of carrying out various operational roles, including Mine Counter Measure operations using Unmanned MCM Suite, Channel Mapping, Route Survey and Sanitization, Search and Rescue (SAR), Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR), Mine Laying, and Local Naval Defense.

One of the critical features of these MCMVs is their ability to undertake constabulary roles, such as Coastal Surveillance, Maritime Interdiction Operations (MIO), and Visit, Board, Search, and Seizure (VBSS) operations in Indian Maritime Zones. This multi-role approach underscores the Indian Navy’s commitment to ensuring maritime security and safeguarding its territorial waters.

The dimensions of the MCMVs are expected to be approximately 87 meters in length, 15 meters in breadth, and 4.1 meters in draught, with a displacement of around 2800 tons. In terms of speed, the vessels will have a maximum speed of at least 20 knots and an economical speed of 14 knots, enabling them to cover long distances efficiently. The ship’s endurance is projected to be over 2500 nautical miles at 14 knots, with the capability to sustain at sea for approximately 8-10 days without on-the-run refuelling at economical speed.

The MCMVs have been designed to exhibit operational seaworthiness up to Sea State 4, ensuring smooth transit on all headings up to Sea State 4. Furthermore, they are designed to withstand adverse sea conditions, with survivability up to Sea State 6, making them well-equipped to handle challenging operational environments.

To meet their propulsion needs, the MCMVs will employ a Combined Diesel Or Electric (CODOE) configuration, featuring two diesel engines and two electric motors. This arrangement enables efficient power distribution, enhancing the vessels’ manoeuvrability and operational readiness.

The acquisition of these advanced MCMVs will significantly bolster the Indian Navy’s capabilities in mine countermeasure operations and coastal security. By deploying state-of-the-art technology and integrating advanced systems, the Navy aims to strengthen its maritime defence and effectively safeguard its territorial waters.

The anticipated delivery timeline for the MCMVs is proposed to be between 2030 to 2037. As India continues to strengthen its indigenous defense manufacturing capabilities, the construction and deployment of these MCMVs will be a testament to the country’s commitment to self-reliance in the defense sector.

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