SOURCE: AFI
In a significant development underscoring the deepening naval cooperation between India and Russia, a high-level Russian delegation led by Commander-in-Chief of the Russian Navy, Admiral Aleksandr Moiseyev, visited the Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) today. The visit included an inspection of an under-construction warship and an exploration of the MDL Heritage Gallery, followed by strategic discussions with the MDL leadership team, headed by Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) Narayan Prasad.
Admiral Moiseyev’s visit to MDL, one of India’s premier shipbuilding yards, reflects the ongoing commitment between the Indian and Russian navies to collaborate on various defense projects. MDL has a long-standing history of constructing advanced warships and submarines for the Indian Navy, many of which have been developed with Russian technological assistance. This visit not only strengthens the existing ties but also opens new avenues for future cooperation, particularly in the domain of shipbuilding and naval technology.
One of the key highlights of the visit was the delegation’s inspection of an under-construction warship at the MDL facility. While specific details about the vessel remain undisclosed, the visit provided Admiral Moiseyev and his team with firsthand insight into India’s shipbuilding capabilities and the advanced technology employed by MDL. The delegation’s interest in the ongoing construction underscores Russia’s recognition of India’s growing expertise in naval engineering and shipbuilding.
The Russian delegation also toured the MDL Heritage Gallery, which chronicles the illustrious history of the shipyard, showcasing its evolution from a small dry dock in the 18th century to a modern shipbuilding powerhouse. The gallery highlights MDL’s contributions to India’s maritime strength, including the construction of numerous naval vessels, submarines, and merchant ships.
Following the tour, the delegation engaged in strategic discussions with MDL’s leadership team, led by CMD Narayan Prasad. These discussions likely revolved around ongoing and future projects, technological collaborations, and potential opportunities for joint ventures. Given the historical collaboration between India and Russia in defense, these talks could pave the way for new cooperative initiatives, including potential future warship and submarine projects.