Multi-purpose veseel INS Samarthak was commissioned into the Indian Navy at an event in Karwar, Karnataka on Friday (October 16, 2026).
It was commissioned in the presence of Vice-President C.P. Radhakrishnan. Larsen and Toubro built the INS Samarthak under the Make In India initiative. “The vessel reflects India’s growing indigenous shipbuilding capabilities and commitment to maritime self-reliance. INS Samarthak marks a journey of precision, perseverance and indigenous innovation, strengthening India’s maritime capabilities,” a statement read. Addressing the commissioning ceremony in the presence of Vice-President C .P. Karnataka Minister for Labour Santosh Lad was also present on the occasion.
Radhakrishnan at the Navy’s base at Karwar, Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Krishna Swaminathan said the vessel, built by Larsen and Toubro (L&T) at its Kattupalli shipyard in Tamil Nadu, has more than 75% indigenous content.
“Samarthak is the first major or big warship contracted to and constructed by a private shipyard to be commissioned into the Indian Navy,” he said. “These capabilities are particularly vital in today’s rapidly evolving technological milieu, where shortening the journey from prototype to production is critical to maintaining the operational edge at sea,” he said.
