SOURCE: AFI

On Monday, the Indian Navy took a significant step forward in enhancing its maritime operations with the launch of the second Multi-Purpose Vessel (MPV), ‘Utkarsh’, from the Kattupalli Shipyard near Chennai. Built by L&T Shipbuilding Limited, Utkarsh, meaning ‘Superior in Conduct’, joins its sister ship, INS Samarthak, which was launched just three months prior, in bolstering the Navy’s versatility and operational scope.
The launch of INS Utkarsh comes within three months of the launch of the first MPV, INS Samarthak. Together, these vessels will significantly bolster the operational capabilities of the Indian Navy, particularly in areas requiring versatile and mission-critical support.
A.T. Ramchandani, Senior Vice President & Head – L&T Precision Engineering & Systems, highlighted the significance of this launch, stating, “The successful launch of the second MPV ahead of schedule underscores L&T’s unwavering commitment to bolster India’s national security. With our unmatched in-house design expertise and execution prowess, we are committed to providing cutting-edge defence platforms to support Indian Navy’s fleet expansion needs.”
Technical Specifications and Capabilities
The MPV Utkarsh measures 106 meters in length and 18.6 meters in width, with a displacement exceeding 3,750 tonnes. Designed to reach speeds up to 15 knots, this vessel is equipped to perform a myriad of tasks critical to modern naval operations. These include:
- Towing: Assisting in the navigation of ships in distress or during port operations.
- Launching and Recovery: Capable of handling various targets for training and operational purposes.
- Autonomous Vehicle Operations: Utkarsh can operate Unmanned Autonomous Vehicles (UAVs), enhancing its surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities.
- Trial Platform: It serves as a testing ground for indigenous weapons and sensors, fostering innovation and self-reliance in defense technology.