SOURCE: AFI
In a landmark achievement for India’s defense sector, Bengaluru-based Valdel Advanced Technologies Pvt. Ltd. (VATPL), in collaboration with the Indian Navy and supported by the Defence Research and Development Organisation’s (DRDO) Technology Development Fund (TDF), has successfully developed the country’s first A60-certified naval door. This watertight, gas-tight, and fire-class compliant door marks a significant milestone in India’s journey toward self-reliance in aerospace and naval technology, reducing dependence on foreign suppliers for critical defense components.
The A60-certified naval door, designed for Indian Naval vessels, is a testament to India’s growing prowess in advanced defense manufacturing. Unlike conventional doors, these specialized doors are engineered to withstand extreme conditions at sea, ensuring crew safety and vessel integrity by maintaining watertight and gas-tight seals while meeting stringent A60 fire-resistance standards. Previously, such critical components were imported, posing challenges in terms of cost, supply chain vulnerabilities, and strategic autonomy. Valdel’s innovation, developed under the DRDO’s TDF initiative, addresses these issues by delivering a fully indigenous solution tailored to the Indian Navy’s needs.
The project, formally titled “Development of Composite WT/GT and Fire Class/EMC Compliant Doors and Hatches for Indian Naval Ships,” was a collaborative effort involving Valdel Advanced Technologies, the Indian Navy, and academic partner M.S. Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences (RUAS). Initiated in 2021, the project leveraged DRDO’s TDF scheme, which fosters innovation by bridging academia, industry, and defense stakeholders under the ‘Make in India’ initiative.
The A60 certification, a globally recognized standard, indicates that the door can withstand fire for up to 60 minutes, a critical requirement for naval vessels operating in high-risk environments. This certification ensures the door’s ability to contain fires, maintain structural integrity, and protect personnel during emergencies. By achieving this standard indigenously, Valdel has not only met rigorous international benchmarks but also positioned India as a competitive player in the global defense manufacturing landscape.
“This is a proud moment for Valdel and India’s defense ecosystem,” said a spokesperson for Valdel Advanced Technologies. “The A60-certified naval door is a shining example of how industry, academia, and the armed forces can collaborate to deliver cutting-edge solutions that enhance national security and self-reliance.”
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