Will Indian Navy's Warships Feature Composite Material Doors and Hatches?
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Synopsis
Exciting advancements are underway as the Indian Navy's warships, being constructed at GRSE, may soon incorporate innovative composite material for doors and hatches, enhancing durability and reducing maintenance costs. This partnership aims to bolster self-reliance in defense manufacturing, aligning with India's modernization goals.
Key Takeaways
- Composite material offers lightweight and durable solutions for naval applications.
- This development supports self-reliance in defense manufacturing.
- The partnership aims for a minimum of 50% indigenous content.
- GRSE has a record of building over 800 ships for the Navy and Coast Guard.
- The INS Himgiri is the first of three frigates under Project 17A.
Kolkata, Sep 4 (NationPress) Warships being constructed for the Indian Navy at Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) Ltd are set to feature doors and hatches crafted from composite material. Composite doors and hatches provide a lightweight, durable solution that is impervious to moisture, salt, and corrosion. Their reduced weight enhances the ship's overall endurance, making them an excellent choice for naval applications.
GRSE announced on September 3 that it has entered into a Teaming Agreement with Merlinhawk Aerospace Pvt Ltd for the design, development, and manufacturing of these composite components, aligning with the Navy’s modernization efforts.
These composite doors not only improve thermal and acoustic insulation but also aid in energy efficiency and create a sound-proof environment crucial during naval operations. Additionally, they can be made with integrated fire retardants to comply with various safety standards.
Merlinhawk Aerospace is renowned for its specialized expertise in the aerospace and defense sectors, providing top-tier design, prototyping, and manufacturing solutions using advanced composite materials.
This partnership aims to achieve a minimum of 50% indigenous content as mandated by the Buy (Indian-IDDM) and Buy (Indian) categories, thus supporting the goals of self-reliance in defense manufacturing as highlighted in the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative by the Government of India, according to a senior GRSE official.
On July 31, GRSE successfully delivered the INS Himgiri, a state-of-the-art guided missile frigate equipped with stealth capabilities, to the Navy. This vessel was commissioned on August 26, alongside its sister ship INS Udaygiri, built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd, with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh officiating the event.
The INS Himgiri marks the 112th warship (and 801st ship) produced by GRSE for the Navy and Coast Guard, setting a record for any shipyard in the country. It is the first of three advanced frigates commissioned under the Navy’s Project 17A, with the remaining two currently being outfitted at the shipyard.
On August 14, GRSE also delivered the INS Ikshak, a Survey Vessel (Large), to the Navy, which is pending commissioning.
Currently, GRSE is engaged in the construction of 14 warships across four classes for the Navy and is poised to finalize a contract for Next Generation Corvettes after being selected as the lowest bidder.
Point of View
I recognize the significance of GRSE's collaboration with Merlinhawk Aerospace in promoting self-reliance in defense manufacturing. This initiative not only enhances the capabilities of the Indian Navy but also aligns with the nation's broader goals of modernization and indigenous development. Supporting such endeavors is essential for bolstering national security and manufacturing prowess.
NationPress
04/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What materials are the new doors and hatches made from?
The new doors and hatches for Indian Navy warships will be made from composite material, which is lightweight and resistant to moisture, salt, and corrosion.
Who is partnering with GRSE for this initiative?
GRSE has signed a Teaming Agreement with Merlinhawk Aerospace Pvt Ltd for the design, development, and manufacture of the new composite doors and hatches.
What is the significance of this development?
This development aims to enhance the endurance and reduce maintenance costs of warships, while also contributing to India's defense self-reliance under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
How many warships is GRSE currently building?
GRSE is currently constructing 14 warships across four different classes for the Indian Navy.
What is Project 17A?
Project 17A involves the construction of advanced frigates for the Indian Navy, with GRSE tasked to build three ships under this project.
