According to ANI, the Indian Navy is gearing up to release a tender for the construction of four large Landing Platform Docks (LPDs), with an estimated budget of approximately ₹80,000 crore. This initiative is poised to be one of India’s most significant surface warship projects.
The Defence Ministry is expected to review this proposal in an upcoming high-level meeting. If greenlit, these new vessels will enhance India’s capabilities in amphibious warfare and serve as adaptable platforms for various military operations.
The envisioned LPDs are designed not only for traditional naval engagements but also as operational hubs capable of deploying fixed-wing drones and managing extensive shore-based missions. They will be equipped with air defense systems aimed at neutralizing aerial threats while boasting offensive features like long-range anti-ship missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles.
Beyond military applications, these ships will play crucial roles in out-of-area contingencies, facilitating the transport and deployment of substantial forces while also being available for humanitarian aid and disaster relief efforts when necessary.
Construction is anticipated to take place at Indian shipyards, with major players such as L&T, Mazagon Dockyard, Cochin Shipyard, and Hindustan Shipyards Limited likely vying for the contract. Additionally, international firms like Spain’s Navantia and France’s Naval Group may collaborate on design aspects to infuse advanced technology into the project while ensuring local integration.
This initiative follows a request for information issued by the Indian Navy regarding LPDs back in 2021. Officials have emphasized that these ships will be entirely constructed within India—an essential step towards bolstering self-reliance in naval shipbuilding.
The push for enhanced maritime capabilities aligns with recent developments within the Indian Navy; earlier this year saw the commissioning of three new warships—INS Surat, INS Nilgiri (the lead vessel from Project 17A), and INS Vaghsheer—in Mumbai under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s oversight. The INS Nilgiri showcases cutting-edge technology aimed at improving stealth features and overall survivability during operations.
Additions like Androth—the second anti-submarine warfare shallow water craft built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders—further illustrate India’s commitment to strengthening its maritime defenses amid increasing Chinese activities in regional waters.
