GRSE Completes Sea Trials for Himgiri and Androth
Recently, Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) Ltd successfully completed Contractor Sea Trials (CSTs) for two naval vessels, the Himgiri and Androth. These trials mark milestone in India’s naval shipbuilding efforts. The Himgiri is an Advanced Frigate, part of Project 17A, while the Androth is an Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft.
Contractor Sea Trials
CSTs are crucial for assessing a ship’s seaworthiness. During these trials, various performance metrics are evaluated. These include speed, manoeuvrability, and the functionality of onboard equipment. Senior officials from GRSE and the Indian Navy monitored the trials closely. The completion of these trials signifies that the vessels are ready for operational deployment.
Details of the Vessels
The Himgiri is the first of three Advanced Frigates being constructed under Project 17A. This project aims to enhance India’s naval capabilities with modern, indigenously designed ships. The Androth is the second of eight Anti-Submarine Warfare vessels being built at GRSE. Both ships feature advanced technology and improved stealth capabilities.
Project 17A Significance
Project 17A represents a strategic initiative to boost India’s maritime strength. The ships are designed by the Directorate of Naval Design and are built at GRSE and Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited. This project aligns with India’s vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat, promoting self-reliance in defence production.
Economic Impact
Naval shipbuilding under Project 17A is expected to stimulate the Indian economy. Approximately 80% of materials and equipment for these ships are sourced from domestic vendors. This initiative supports over 2000 Indian firms and MSMEs, generating employment opportunities. The project is seen as a vital component of post-COVID economic recovery.
Technological Advancements
The ships under Project 17A incorporate state-of-the-art technology. They are the first gas turbine propulsion vessels built at GRSE. Enhanced stealth features and advanced weapon systems are integral to their design. The modular construction approach adopted by GRSE aims to improve productivity and efficiency in shipbuilding.
Month: Current Affairs - March, 2025
Category: Defence Current Affairs