L&T Launches INS Utkarsh, Second Multi-Purpose Vessel for Indian Navy

L&T
Image Courtesy: L&T

Larsen & Toubro (L&T) has launched INS Utkarsh, the second Multi-Purpose Vessel (MPV) for the Indian Navy, at its Kattupalli Shipyard near Chennai. The vessel, named INS Utkarsh, was formally launched by Dr. Sushmita Misra Singh, spouse of Union Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh.

The ceremony was attended by notable dignitaries, including Vice Admiral B. Sivakumar, Controller of Warship Production and Acquisition; Rear Admiral Vishal Bishnoi, Assistant Controller of Warship Production and Acquisition; and senior officials from L&T. This launch marks a milestone, coming just three months after the unveiling of the first Multi-Purpose Vessel (MPV), INS Samarthak, which is now undergoing testing and trials ahead of its delivery to the Indian Navy.

Designed for versatility, the MPVs are specialized platforms capable of supporting next-generation weapons and sensors development, maritime surveillance, humanitarian missions, pollution control, and the launch and recovery of surface and aerial assets. These vessels measure 107 meters in length, 18.6 meters in width, and have a displacement exceeding 3,750 tonnes. Under the Government of India’s “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” and “Make in India” initiatives, their design was developed at L&T’s Warship Design Centre in Chennai, with construction taking place at the advanced Kattupalli Shipyard near Chennai.

Speaking at the event, A.T. Ramchandani, Senior Vice President and Head of L&T Precision Engineering & Systems, highlighted the significance of this achievement, stating, “The ahead-of-schedule launch of the second MPV reaffirms L&T’s steadfast commitment to enhancing India’s national security. With our cutting-edge design expertise and execution capabilities, we aim to deliver state-of-the-art defence platforms to support the Navy’s fleet expansion.”

In addition to these MPVs, L&T is building three Cadet Training Ships and six other defence vessels for the Navy under a public-private partnership. The shipyard is also conducting repairs on the Indian naval ship INS Tir, further showcasing its capabilities as a premier shipbuilding and repair hub.

Larsen & Toubro (L&T) is a globally recognized Indian multinational conglomerate specializing in engineering, construction, manufacturing, and technology. Headquartered in Mumbai, L&T operates across diverse sectors, including infrastructure, power, heavy engineering, defense, and information technology.

Established in 1938 by Henning Holck-Larsen and Søren Kristian Toubro, the company has played a pivotal role in shaping India’s industrial landscape, contributing to iconic projects like metro rail systems, smart cities, and major industrial plants. With a strong emphasis on innovation and sustainability, L&T is known for its cutting-edge solutions that drive efficiency and environmental stewardship. With a presence in over 50 countries, L&T continues to be a leader in delivering world-class projects while fostering growth and development in the communities it serves.