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Indian Navy inducts surveillance ship INLCU L51
Indian Navy's latest surveillance ship, INLCU L51 was commissioned today and it will be part of the fleet deployed to check poaching, illegal fishing, drug trafficking and other unlawful activities in the Indian Ocean region. The ship was commissioned by Vice Admiral Bimal Verma, Commander-in-Chief of Andaman and Nicobar Command at Port Blair.
It is the first of the eight ships of the LCU Mk IV Class and has been built by M/s Garden Reach Ship Builders & Engineers Ltd, Kolkata.
Conceived and designed indigenously, the commissioning of the ship adds a feather to the glorious chapter in India's 'Make in India' initiative and indigenisation efforts in the field of warship design and construction, the Defence Ministry said in a statement.
The armament onboard the ship include 30 mm CRN -91 guns, 12.7 mm Heavy Machine Guns and 7.62 mm Medium Machine Guns.
http://economictimes.indiatimes.com...p-inlcu-l51/articleshow/57878315.cms?from=mdr
India signs for naval and coastguard Dhruv ALH helos
India has signed an INR80 billion (USD1.2 billion) deal with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for the procurement of 32 new Dhruv Advanced Light Helicopters (ALHs) for the navy and coastguard.
The deal, announced by the company on 30 March, covers 16 helicopters for each service, as well as a five-year performance-based logistics contract. No delivery timeline was disclosed.
As noted by Jane's World Navies, the Indian Navy (IN) currently operates the SA 319B light utility helicopter, which is due to be retired by 2020. Initially the IN envisaged the HAL Dhruv ALH as a replacement but by 2007, following initial deliveries of the helicopter, the platform was considered unsuitable for naval operations.
In November 2013 the first Dhruv ALH Squadron, Indian Naval Air Squadron (INAS) 322, was commissioned at the IN's land base at Garuda in Kochi. Vice Admiral Soni said at the commissioning that the Dhruv would "soon be cleared for a night search and rescue role, one of the few helicopters in the world to have that capability over sea".
As of mid-2015 eight Dhruvs were operational with the navy and the coastguard. In July 2014 it was reported that the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) had approved manufacture of 32 Dhruv Mk IIIs; 16 each for the IN and coastguard. In January 2016 the chief of the naval staff said that negotiations with HAL for procurement of additional Dhruvs were in their final stage.
The naval variant of the Dhruv features retractable tricycle gear, SV-2000 surveillance radar, harpoon decklock, pressure refuelling, and fairings on fuselage sides to house mainwheels, flotation gear, and batteries. The coastguard variant shares a high commonality with the naval version, featuring a nose-mounted surveillance radar; roof-mounted forward-looking infrared (FLIR); starboard side, cabin-mounted 7.62 mm machine gun; radar console and operator's seat; liferaft; and a loudhailer.
http://www.janes.com/article/69187/india-signs-for-naval-and-coastguard-dhruv-alh-helos
http://www.economylead.com/governme...oppers-each-to-indian-navy-coast-guard-115274
Indian Navy gets new weather monitoring system
Navy Chief Admiral Sunil Lanba today unveiled an integrated aviation meteorological system which is expected to bring accuracy in weather monitoring mechanism in the Indian Navy.
The system can also provide automatic dissemination of routine weather reports as per standards followed by the World Meteorological Organisation to other air stations and Air Traffic Controller towers without human intervention.
Installation of the system at remaining eight stations is expected to be completed by March 2019.
http://economictimes.indiatimes.com...ring-system/articleshow/57879069.cms?from=mdr
Indian Navy inducts first Mk IV LCU
The Indian Navy has commissioned the first of eight Mk IV Landing Craft Utility (LCU) vessels designed and manufactured by state-owned shipyard Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE).
The vessel was commissioned on 28 March at Port Blair in a ceremony officiated by the country's Commander-in-Chief of the Andaman and Nicobar Command, Vice Admiral Bimal Verma, the Indian defence ministry announced on the same day.
The platform, which was delivered by GRSE in September 2016, is referred to by the service as INLCU L51.
According to specifications provided by the ministry, the vessel has an overall length of 62.8 m and a breadth of 11 m. Powered by two MTU 16V 4000 M53 diesel engines with a power rating of 1840 kW, the LCU can attain a top speed of 15 kt and a standard range of 1,500 n miles at 12 kt.
The platform has been equipped with a hydraulic bow ramp, and features military lift capacity for 145 tonnes of military equipment in addition to 165 troops, according to a Jane's report from October 2016.
"The ship will also play a key role in carrying out maritime surveillance of Andaman and Nicobar Islands for preventing anti-poaching, illegal fishing, drug trafficking, human trafficking, poaching, and other illegal activities", said the ministry.
"It will also enhance the capabilities of the Andaman and Nicobar Command in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) operations", it added.
The LCU's main weapon system consist of two 30 mm CRN -91 naval guns manufactured by Ordnance Factory Medak, complemented by an electro-optical fire control system supplied by Bharat Electronics Limited. The vessel has also been equipped with 12.7 mm and 7.62 mm machine guns for point defence.
http://www.janes.com/article/69111/indian-navy-inducts-first-mk-iv-lcu
Kerala police chief aids extraction of Indian Navy Team from riot hit Kasargod
The Coast to Coast Outreach Programme of Indian Navy ran in to rough weather on day one of their Kerala leg at Kasargod on Tuesday. Bailing them out from a tough situation were the men in khaki of Kerala State Police who took the 15-member team astride their Mahindra XUV 500s safely out of riot torn Kasargod. But all this was not without a sense of drama and the team was forced to seek refuge in the safety of CPCRI guest house at Kasargod.
The team headed by Commander M K Sharma that is on a mission down Peninsular India to spread the word about Indian Navy and its activities as well as career opportunities to mark platinum jubilee of INS Valsura, premier training establishment of the Navy, had to contend with a major law and order situation at Kasargod, some 60-kms from here. The murder of a Muslim cleric in Kasargod saw the local Muslim league there give call for a day long hartal.
The Indian Navy team that set out from the city in the early hours for a meeting with students of Government Higher Secondary School at Kanhangad found themselves staring at hostile crowd in the city. With local police busy handling the fall out of the murder and not able to render immediate assistance, they turned to Lokanath Behera, Kerala State police chief for help. In the meanwhile, the team made their way to CPCRI guest house for their onward journey was not safe.
Cdr Hari Parameshwaran, PRO of the team told TOI though the people were really agitated, they were really nice to the team, after coming to know they were from the Navy. They warned us not to venture ahead unescorted for groups were pelting stones at vehicles. "We could see huge rocks rain down on road from hill tops straddling the NH and an auto rickshaw driver being beaten up after a mob overturned his vehicle," he added underscoring gravity of the situation.
It was only towards evening that the assistance assured by Behera reached them at CPCRI guest house from where they could move forward with police control room vehicle leading their convoy out from the trouble zone. The team presented their escorts with souvenirs to show their appreciation and headed for the Indian Naval Academy at Ezhimala near Payannur. "Behera has assured us protection in areas that could still be volatile due to the incident," he said.
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/...it-kasargod/articleshow/57756376.cms?from=mdr
Indian fishermen are crossing maritime boundaries – Indian Navy Chief
According to 'The Hindu,' the Indian Navy has been tracking and monitoring Chinese submarines in the Indian Ocean, the Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral Sunil Lanba, said on Wednesday at a press conference.Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral Sunil Lanba
At a press conference after a programme to mark the decommissioning of the Tu-142M long-range maritime patrol aircraft after 29 years of service and the silver jubilee of INS Rajali at the naval air station in Arakkonam on Wednesday, he said the Chinese had been deploying submarines in the Indian Ocean since 2013.
Crossing the boundary
'The Hindu' further revealed that, the Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral Sunil Lanba when speaking about Indian fishermen coming into conflict with Sri Lanka, he said, “Indian fishermen have been crossing maritime boundary, going and fishing in Sri Lankan waters. A dialogue is going on and there was a meeting between fishing associations of Sri Lanka and Tamil Nadu.”
Admiral Lanba said the Tu-142M had “extensively flown in the airspace around Sri Lanka when the island nation was fighting the LTTE”.
He recollected the crucial role played by the squadron in Operation Cactus in the Maldives, when fleeing mercenaries were detected and tracked till they were apprehended by Indian warships.
On coastal security, he said that after the November 26 terrorist attacks in Mumbai, the Navy was made overall in-charge of maritime security. “We have worked together with the Coast Guard and also coastal State governments and a whole lot of other agencies, such as the marine police and the Department of Fisheries, to ensure that our coasts are safe,” he said.
Admiral Lanba said the Navy was a pioneer in indigenization. It started building ships in India in the early 1960s, and had built over 200 ships in Indian shipyards.
LCA issue
He said the Navy was the first to support the Aeronautical Development Agency and the DRDO in developing the light combat aircraft (LCA). “We are committed to an Indian fighter aircraft that can operate from an aircraft carrier. The LCA Mk1 does not meet our requirements to be a carrier-based fighter aircraft. It does not have the correct power-to-thrust ratio,” he said.
Asked if there were plans to bring in more women in the Navy, he said, “We have close to 500 women officers in the Navy. They are in certain branches, and have now started flying in patrol aircraft. We are examining the issue of them serving on ships.”
http://www.asiantribune.com/node/90280
PART - I
Main Surface Combatants
Project-15B Bangalore-Class Destroyers
An improved version of Kolkata-class. 4 ships planned, 1st one's hull almost complete. First major warship-class to be built after MDL received much-needed upgrades in terms of modular construction.
Carries 16 x BrahMos anti-ship/land-attack cruise missiles (will be replaced with Mach 7-8 BrahMos-II once that's ready) and 48-64 SAMs (Barak-8/8ER), all contained in VLS cells. A new CIWS cannon should be inducted by the time these ships are doing sea trials. MF-STAR AESA multifunction radar and RAWL-02/RAN-40L search radar with EMDINA Combat management system will be integrated. BEL HUMSA-NG sonar suite will be standard.
Project-15A Kolkata-Class Destroyers
The most powerful warship built in India so far. 3 ships planned, 1st one inducted & commissioned earlier this month. 2nd & 3rd ones will follow next year. Armament suite includes 16 BrahMos-1 cruise missiles and 32 (according to some, 64; with 32 additional reloads) Barak-8 SAMs, all VLS-based. Comes with 4 CIWS cannons of 30mm caliber and a 76mm main SRGM. Radars are the same as P-15B as are CMS and Sonar suites, albeit P-15B might be using more advanced/later versions. Full load displacement quoted as 7,400 tons. Hangars for 2 large helicopters are available : the competition of 12-ton Multirole choppers for DDGs should begin soon with the competitors being CH-148 Cyclone and AW-101. Winning helos could be armed with light anti-ship missiles such as Kongsberg NSM, and will have their own torpedos & dunking sonars. It's also the same for P-15B.
Project-15 Delhi-Class Destroyers Upgrade*
The 3 existing Delhi-class destroyers, each with 6,900 tons of displacement and currently carrying 16 cruise missiles and 80 surface-to-air missiles will be upgraded with the MF-STAR multifunction radar, new EMDINA combat management suite and new sonars. The 16 Kh-35 Switchblade/Uran-E missiles will be replaced with tube-launched BrahMos-1 while the 42 Shtil-1 (9M317M) SAMs will be replaced by Barak-8, the 32 Barak-1 being retained with upgrades.
Project-17A Frigates
Much-improved versions of Shivalik-class FFG. Total 7 planned for construction at two different shipyards (4 at MDL and 3 at GRSE), this number could grow to 10 if an additional 3 Talwar-class frigates are not ordered. The frigates will have largely the same radars & CMS, sonar suites as the P-15B destroyers - like the MF-STAR multifunction radar and HUMSA-NG hull-mounted sonar array.
Armament will consist of 8 cruise missiles (BrahMos-1/2) and 32 surface-to-air missiles (Barak-8), all launched from VLS cells. Fully conceled torpedo tubes and redesigned flush deck to reduce radar & acoustic signature will be implemented. Full load displacement could be between 6,200 and 6,800 tons.
New CIWS cannons and 76mm/127mm SRGM will be equipped in likely redesigned turrets.
Talwar (Krivak-IV)-Class Frigates
Adding to the 6 already in service, another 3 to be ordered from Russia as Batch-III with some upgrades to the combat management system. Armament suite of 8 BrahMos cruise missiles and 24 9M317M SAMs will be retained.
Project-28 Kamorta-Class ASW Corvettes
New-generation corvettes with an emphasis on anti-submarine warfare. Total 4 planned, 1st one commissioned earlier this month. The design includes advanced X-form hull (a first in India) and several radar, acoustic, and Infra-Red suppression measures. The corvette, with a full load displacement of 3,400 tons is geared for ASW missions with an array of torpedos, hull-mounted & towed-array sonars and several processing stations dedicated for submarine-hunting. The ship would receive a 16-cell Barak-1 SAM suite in the future. The capability to launch an anti-submarine version of the Klub missile through torpedo tubes is said to exist, with transfer of Klubs for Kamorta being documented in SIPRI, but such capability is not officially mentioned.
Another 8 corvettes of an improved design under Project-28A could be cleared for construction after the 3rd & 4th vessels (which will bring some new design developments as compared to 1st and 2nd ones) of present class are completed.
New Generation Corvettes
With the indigenous ship design agencies already jam-packed, the design for 16 new guided missile corvettes will be acquired from a European or Russian design agency and then they will be constructed in India with some modifications. Picture of Swedish Visby-class is only for depiction, although that design is most likely to be among the competitors.
*While the SLEP upgrade of P-15 Delhi destroyers is a sure thing to happen, the exact systems & weapons to be included in that upgrade are not yet confirmed so have that one with a pinch of salt.
Another matter that deserves mention is the possible upgrade of 3 existing Project-16A frigates with Maitri/Barak-1 SAMs and new electronic systems. Tube-launched BrahMos-1 cannot be ruled out either.
On top of the 7 new destroyers under P-15A/B, there are rumors of upto 8 to 12 more next-generation destroyers of a new design, with indigenous AESA-based multi-function radars and fully integrated masts. Then again, it's just a rumor, although defence analysts have confirmed that IN plans to have a fleet of 24 destroyers total.
PART - II
Aircraft Carriers, Support Ships & Amphibious Warfare Vessels
Project-71 IAC-1 (Vikrant-Class) Aircraft Carrier
The first carrier-class to be designed & built in India. The IAC-1 is a gas turbine-powered STOBAR configuration with MiG-29K and NLCA Tejas jet fighters outlined for operations from it's deck. It can carry a total 30 aircraft, including flight & hangar deck storage. Full-load displacement will be around 40,000 tons. The remainder of the air-wing consists of Ka-31 Helix-B AEW helicopters, Dhruv Mk.3 & Sea King transport/ASW helicopters. The Sea Kings will be replaced in due course by a new NMRH - most likely S-70B-2 Sea Hawk.
The electronics will consist of an MFSTAR multifunction AESA radar, a 3D AESA-based search radar (most likely RAN-40L), an indigenous combat management system, and a suite of BEL-built hull-mounted sonars. The ship will have it's own compliment of 32 Barak-8 SAMs as well as 4 CIWS mounts of 30mm caliber. The maximum speed under propulsion is quoted as 30 knots.
Currently the carrier's hull is almost complete and according to sources, propulsion has been integrated. The ship is being built using modular methods, with the 'island' superstructure nearing completion as well and awaiting installation into place.
The Vikrant will be operated by the Eastern Naval Command.
Vikramaditya (Admiral Gorshkov/Kiev)-Class Aircraft Carrier
Although the ship itself, displacing 45,500 tons and capable of carrying 26 aircraft in total, is inducted & operational with the Western Naval Command, there still remains the program to outfit it with Barak-8 SAMs and a new CIWS system. The Vikramaditya operates MiG-29K fighters & Ka-31 AEW, Dhruv, Sea King, Ka-28PL and Chetak helicopters.
Vishaal (IAC-2)-Class Aircraft Carrier
Although details remain sketchy, it can be said with almost-certainty that the IAC-2 will be built with the following features to boot : a displacement of around 65,000 tons (don't know for sure if full-load or not), CATOBAR configuration with the option of EMALS (US has already made clear it's offer) and nuclear propulsion using the same 180-200MW Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR) that is being developed for future submarine-classes.
The most sketchy part of the details remains the air-wing. It may consist of either a naval version of FGFA, or Rafale-M taking advantage of IAF's MMRCA deal, which will eventually be replaced by a naval AMCA. The CATOBAR configuration allows for the operation of aircraft such as E-2D Advanced Hawkeye and UCAVs. Little is known about the rest of this carrier.
Although only one has be contemplated so far, we can expect a 2nd ship of this class when the time comes to replace the Vikramaditya. The IN intends for a 3-carrier force, one for Bay of Bengal/China, one for Arabian Sea/Pakistan/Middle East and one on standby or in refit, and according to prominent defence analysts, the IN could standardize on Vishaal & improved designs of the same class by the time the Viki & IAC-1 are to be replaced or transferred into reserves...hinting at a 3rd ship of this class.
Landing Helicopter Docks
Competition for 4 LHDs, 2 of which will be bought from abroad and the remaining 2 built in India. As per the latest of unofficial reports, the Spanish Juan Carlos-I and the French Mistral-class ships are leading the fray for providing four vessels for the IN. Respectively they have displacements of 26,000 tons & 21,300 tons and can transport between 900+ troops & 40-46 main battle tanks along with a plethora of 20-30 helicopters from the flight deck.
Fleet Support Ships
The MoD had recently cleared the procurement of five large Fleet Support Ships (FSS) designed to accompany the CBGs or assist in other amphibious operations. The FSS are to have full-load displacements of around 40,000 tons and will be capable of both astern & abeam transfer of equipment & replenishments for at-sea naval warfare units. No data as yet about the possible competitors or exact method of acquisition. Most probably foreign design will be modified & built in India. Picture of DCNS BRAVE-class ship only for depiction, although that model is likely to be among the competition.
PART - III
Submarines (Nuclear & Conventional)
Ballistic Missile Submarines (SSBN)
S-5 "Avinash" Class
The S-5 are the definitive underwater deterrence platforms of the Indian nuclear triad. A total of 3 submarines of this class have been outlined, each one with a submerged displacement of approximately 20,000 tons and capable of carrying between 12 to 24 intercontinental ballistic missiles with Multiple Independently targeted Re-entry Vehicles (MIRVs). The K-5 SLBM with an estimated range of 6,500 to 8,500 kilometers is being developed for the purpose.
It is not known if the S-5 submarine-class will be made to carry BrahMos cruise missiles in their torpedo tubes for defence against warships.
The same "Shipbuilding Center" in Vizag on India's East Coast that is building the Arihant-class submarines will take up construction of the much larger S-5 afterwards. The vessels will be a powered by a new-generation 180-200MW pressurized water reactor being designed & developed by the DAE & BARC.
Cruise Missile Submarines (SSGN)
S-2 Arihant-Class
The 3 Arihant-class nuclear submarines (1st one currently undergoing sea trials with the 2nd one most probably being fitted out), originally built as SSBNs, will be converted to an SSGN role carrying the Nirbhay 1,000+ km land-attack cruise missiles & the BrahMos 300km anti-ship cruise missiles in it's silos and torpedo tubes.
It is estimated that each of an Arihant-class vessel's 4 silos can carry upto 5 Nirbhay missiles, giving a total of 20 such missiles in the silos, discounting any number that can also be carried in the torpedo tubes. The Arihant has a surfaced displacement of around 6,000 tons and an unspecified submerged displacement, estimated by unofficial sources as around 7,000 tons.
Attack Submarines (SSN)
The Indian Navy and the MoD have recently outlined a requirement for, to begin with, 6 attack submarines with nuclear propulsion. While it is estimated by naval analysts that this number could grow to anywhere between 9 to 18 in due course - the design of the submarine has not been revealed so far.
Considering various sources, it has been deduced that it would be one of three possible designs:
1) A slightly dowsized version of the Arihant-class design, but without any vertical SLBM launch silos & incorporating considerable acoustic-signature reduction measures
2) Based on a Russian Akula/Yasen-inspired design, with completely re-done interior & aesthetics
3) Based on the French DCNS Barracuda-class SSN design
All three offers would end up having the same reactor (derived from the one meant to go onboard S-5 SSBN). An approximate displacement of around 5,000 tons has been reportedly specified. The submarines will be capable of launching torpedos & anti-ship cruise missiles from the TTubes.
Conventional Attack Submarines (SSK)
Project-75I
The P-75I is a submarine tender which specifies the procurement of 6 advanced conventionally-powered submarines with fuel cell Air-Independent Propulsion (AIP) and the capability to launch BrahMos cruise missiles. While the details of the tender are already known, the choice of submarine, looking from a logistical & economic perspective, had better be the S80 Super Scorpene, which has a displacement of about 2,400 tons.
Scorpene-Class
The Mazagon Dock Ltd. (MDL) is currently engaged in building 6 of these advanced conventional submarines for the IN, each with a displacement of 1,560 tons, and the first one having been named INS Kalvari. The procurement has been repeatedly delayed with the first submarine expected to enter service in 2016. The order book is likely to be increase to 9 from the present 6 by next year.
The IN Scorpenes will be equipped to launch SM-39 Exocet anti-ship cruise missiles and an as-yet-unselected new-generation heavyweight torpedo, with the choices being the SeaHake Mod4 and the Black Shark.
Current prospects aim at 12 nuclear and 12-15 conventional submarines, with the nuclear number being capable of growing to anywhere upto 24. And the total number then grow upto 40 odd vessels. Indian Navy may have more than 40 submarines if it continues to upgrade present fleet of Sindhughosh class or Russian Kilo class Diesel electric vessels. They can be operated for another 20-25 years after their refit, hull modification and upgradation in weapons and sensor suite structure.
Indian Navy's latest surveillance ship, INLCU L51 was commissioned today and it will be part of the fleet deployed to check poaching, illegal fishing, drug trafficking and other unlawful activities in the Indian Ocean region. The ship was commissioned by Vice Admiral Bimal Verma, Commander-in-Chief of Andaman and Nicobar Command at Port Blair.
It is the first of the eight ships of the LCU Mk IV Class and has been built by M/s Garden Reach Ship Builders & Engineers Ltd, Kolkata.
Conceived and designed indigenously, the commissioning of the ship adds a feather to the glorious chapter in India's 'Make in India' initiative and indigenisation efforts in the field of warship design and construction, the Defence Ministry said in a statement.
The armament onboard the ship include 30 mm CRN -91 guns, 12.7 mm Heavy Machine Guns and 7.62 mm Medium Machine Guns.
http://economictimes.indiatimes.com...p-inlcu-l51/articleshow/57878315.cms?from=mdr
India signs for naval and coastguard Dhruv ALH helos
India has signed an INR80 billion (USD1.2 billion) deal with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for the procurement of 32 new Dhruv Advanced Light Helicopters (ALHs) for the navy and coastguard.
The deal, announced by the company on 30 March, covers 16 helicopters for each service, as well as a five-year performance-based logistics contract. No delivery timeline was disclosed.
As noted by Jane's World Navies, the Indian Navy (IN) currently operates the SA 319B light utility helicopter, which is due to be retired by 2020. Initially the IN envisaged the HAL Dhruv ALH as a replacement but by 2007, following initial deliveries of the helicopter, the platform was considered unsuitable for naval operations.
In November 2013 the first Dhruv ALH Squadron, Indian Naval Air Squadron (INAS) 322, was commissioned at the IN's land base at Garuda in Kochi. Vice Admiral Soni said at the commissioning that the Dhruv would "soon be cleared for a night search and rescue role, one of the few helicopters in the world to have that capability over sea".
As of mid-2015 eight Dhruvs were operational with the navy and the coastguard. In July 2014 it was reported that the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) had approved manufacture of 32 Dhruv Mk IIIs; 16 each for the IN and coastguard. In January 2016 the chief of the naval staff said that negotiations with HAL for procurement of additional Dhruvs were in their final stage.
The naval variant of the Dhruv features retractable tricycle gear, SV-2000 surveillance radar, harpoon decklock, pressure refuelling, and fairings on fuselage sides to house mainwheels, flotation gear, and batteries. The coastguard variant shares a high commonality with the naval version, featuring a nose-mounted surveillance radar; roof-mounted forward-looking infrared (FLIR); starboard side, cabin-mounted 7.62 mm machine gun; radar console and operator's seat; liferaft; and a loudhailer.
http://www.janes.com/article/69187/india-signs-for-naval-and-coastguard-dhruv-alh-helos
http://www.economylead.com/governme...oppers-each-to-indian-navy-coast-guard-115274
Indian Navy gets new weather monitoring system
Navy Chief Admiral Sunil Lanba today unveiled an integrated aviation meteorological system which is expected to bring accuracy in weather monitoring mechanism in the Indian Navy.
The system can also provide automatic dissemination of routine weather reports as per standards followed by the World Meteorological Organisation to other air stations and Air Traffic Controller towers without human intervention.
Installation of the system at remaining eight stations is expected to be completed by March 2019.
http://economictimes.indiatimes.com...ring-system/articleshow/57879069.cms?from=mdr
Indian Navy inducts first Mk IV LCU
The Indian Navy has commissioned the first of eight Mk IV Landing Craft Utility (LCU) vessels designed and manufactured by state-owned shipyard Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE).
The vessel was commissioned on 28 March at Port Blair in a ceremony officiated by the country's Commander-in-Chief of the Andaman and Nicobar Command, Vice Admiral Bimal Verma, the Indian defence ministry announced on the same day.
The platform, which was delivered by GRSE in September 2016, is referred to by the service as INLCU L51.
According to specifications provided by the ministry, the vessel has an overall length of 62.8 m and a breadth of 11 m. Powered by two MTU 16V 4000 M53 diesel engines with a power rating of 1840 kW, the LCU can attain a top speed of 15 kt and a standard range of 1,500 n miles at 12 kt.
The platform has been equipped with a hydraulic bow ramp, and features military lift capacity for 145 tonnes of military equipment in addition to 165 troops, according to a Jane's report from October 2016.
"The ship will also play a key role in carrying out maritime surveillance of Andaman and Nicobar Islands for preventing anti-poaching, illegal fishing, drug trafficking, human trafficking, poaching, and other illegal activities", said the ministry.
"It will also enhance the capabilities of the Andaman and Nicobar Command in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) operations", it added.
The LCU's main weapon system consist of two 30 mm CRN -91 naval guns manufactured by Ordnance Factory Medak, complemented by an electro-optical fire control system supplied by Bharat Electronics Limited. The vessel has also been equipped with 12.7 mm and 7.62 mm machine guns for point defence.
http://www.janes.com/article/69111/indian-navy-inducts-first-mk-iv-lcu
Kerala police chief aids extraction of Indian Navy Team from riot hit Kasargod
The Coast to Coast Outreach Programme of Indian Navy ran in to rough weather on day one of their Kerala leg at Kasargod on Tuesday. Bailing them out from a tough situation were the men in khaki of Kerala State Police who took the 15-member team astride their Mahindra XUV 500s safely out of riot torn Kasargod. But all this was not without a sense of drama and the team was forced to seek refuge in the safety of CPCRI guest house at Kasargod.
The team headed by Commander M K Sharma that is on a mission down Peninsular India to spread the word about Indian Navy and its activities as well as career opportunities to mark platinum jubilee of INS Valsura, premier training establishment of the Navy, had to contend with a major law and order situation at Kasargod, some 60-kms from here. The murder of a Muslim cleric in Kasargod saw the local Muslim league there give call for a day long hartal.
The Indian Navy team that set out from the city in the early hours for a meeting with students of Government Higher Secondary School at Kanhangad found themselves staring at hostile crowd in the city. With local police busy handling the fall out of the murder and not able to render immediate assistance, they turned to Lokanath Behera, Kerala State police chief for help. In the meanwhile, the team made their way to CPCRI guest house for their onward journey was not safe.
Cdr Hari Parameshwaran, PRO of the team told TOI though the people were really agitated, they were really nice to the team, after coming to know they were from the Navy. They warned us not to venture ahead unescorted for groups were pelting stones at vehicles. "We could see huge rocks rain down on road from hill tops straddling the NH and an auto rickshaw driver being beaten up after a mob overturned his vehicle," he added underscoring gravity of the situation.
It was only towards evening that the assistance assured by Behera reached them at CPCRI guest house from where they could move forward with police control room vehicle leading their convoy out from the trouble zone. The team presented their escorts with souvenirs to show their appreciation and headed for the Indian Naval Academy at Ezhimala near Payannur. "Behera has assured us protection in areas that could still be volatile due to the incident," he said.
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/...it-kasargod/articleshow/57756376.cms?from=mdr
Indian fishermen are crossing maritime boundaries – Indian Navy Chief
According to 'The Hindu,' the Indian Navy has been tracking and monitoring Chinese submarines in the Indian Ocean, the Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral Sunil Lanba, said on Wednesday at a press conference.Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral Sunil Lanba
At a press conference after a programme to mark the decommissioning of the Tu-142M long-range maritime patrol aircraft after 29 years of service and the silver jubilee of INS Rajali at the naval air station in Arakkonam on Wednesday, he said the Chinese had been deploying submarines in the Indian Ocean since 2013.
Crossing the boundary
'The Hindu' further revealed that, the Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral Sunil Lanba when speaking about Indian fishermen coming into conflict with Sri Lanka, he said, “Indian fishermen have been crossing maritime boundary, going and fishing in Sri Lankan waters. A dialogue is going on and there was a meeting between fishing associations of Sri Lanka and Tamil Nadu.”
Admiral Lanba said the Tu-142M had “extensively flown in the airspace around Sri Lanka when the island nation was fighting the LTTE”.
He recollected the crucial role played by the squadron in Operation Cactus in the Maldives, when fleeing mercenaries were detected and tracked till they were apprehended by Indian warships.
On coastal security, he said that after the November 26 terrorist attacks in Mumbai, the Navy was made overall in-charge of maritime security. “We have worked together with the Coast Guard and also coastal State governments and a whole lot of other agencies, such as the marine police and the Department of Fisheries, to ensure that our coasts are safe,” he said.
Admiral Lanba said the Navy was a pioneer in indigenization. It started building ships in India in the early 1960s, and had built over 200 ships in Indian shipyards.
LCA issue
He said the Navy was the first to support the Aeronautical Development Agency and the DRDO in developing the light combat aircraft (LCA). “We are committed to an Indian fighter aircraft that can operate from an aircraft carrier. The LCA Mk1 does not meet our requirements to be a carrier-based fighter aircraft. It does not have the correct power-to-thrust ratio,” he said.
Asked if there were plans to bring in more women in the Navy, he said, “We have close to 500 women officers in the Navy. They are in certain branches, and have now started flying in patrol aircraft. We are examining the issue of them serving on ships.”
http://www.asiantribune.com/node/90280
PART - I
Main Surface Combatants
Project-15B Bangalore-Class Destroyers
An improved version of Kolkata-class. 4 ships planned, 1st one's hull almost complete. First major warship-class to be built after MDL received much-needed upgrades in terms of modular construction.
Carries 16 x BrahMos anti-ship/land-attack cruise missiles (will be replaced with Mach 7-8 BrahMos-II once that's ready) and 48-64 SAMs (Barak-8/8ER), all contained in VLS cells. A new CIWS cannon should be inducted by the time these ships are doing sea trials. MF-STAR AESA multifunction radar and RAWL-02/RAN-40L search radar with EMDINA Combat management system will be integrated. BEL HUMSA-NG sonar suite will be standard.
Project-15A Kolkata-Class Destroyers
The most powerful warship built in India so far. 3 ships planned, 1st one inducted & commissioned earlier this month. 2nd & 3rd ones will follow next year. Armament suite includes 16 BrahMos-1 cruise missiles and 32 (according to some, 64; with 32 additional reloads) Barak-8 SAMs, all VLS-based. Comes with 4 CIWS cannons of 30mm caliber and a 76mm main SRGM. Radars are the same as P-15B as are CMS and Sonar suites, albeit P-15B might be using more advanced/later versions. Full load displacement quoted as 7,400 tons. Hangars for 2 large helicopters are available : the competition of 12-ton Multirole choppers for DDGs should begin soon with the competitors being CH-148 Cyclone and AW-101. Winning helos could be armed with light anti-ship missiles such as Kongsberg NSM, and will have their own torpedos & dunking sonars. It's also the same for P-15B.
Project-15 Delhi-Class Destroyers Upgrade*
The 3 existing Delhi-class destroyers, each with 6,900 tons of displacement and currently carrying 16 cruise missiles and 80 surface-to-air missiles will be upgraded with the MF-STAR multifunction radar, new EMDINA combat management suite and new sonars. The 16 Kh-35 Switchblade/Uran-E missiles will be replaced with tube-launched BrahMos-1 while the 42 Shtil-1 (9M317M) SAMs will be replaced by Barak-8, the 32 Barak-1 being retained with upgrades.
Project-17A Frigates
Much-improved versions of Shivalik-class FFG. Total 7 planned for construction at two different shipyards (4 at MDL and 3 at GRSE), this number could grow to 10 if an additional 3 Talwar-class frigates are not ordered. The frigates will have largely the same radars & CMS, sonar suites as the P-15B destroyers - like the MF-STAR multifunction radar and HUMSA-NG hull-mounted sonar array.
Armament will consist of 8 cruise missiles (BrahMos-1/2) and 32 surface-to-air missiles (Barak-8), all launched from VLS cells. Fully conceled torpedo tubes and redesigned flush deck to reduce radar & acoustic signature will be implemented. Full load displacement could be between 6,200 and 6,800 tons.
New CIWS cannons and 76mm/127mm SRGM will be equipped in likely redesigned turrets.
Talwar (Krivak-IV)-Class Frigates
Adding to the 6 already in service, another 3 to be ordered from Russia as Batch-III with some upgrades to the combat management system. Armament suite of 8 BrahMos cruise missiles and 24 9M317M SAMs will be retained.
Project-28 Kamorta-Class ASW Corvettes
New-generation corvettes with an emphasis on anti-submarine warfare. Total 4 planned, 1st one commissioned earlier this month. The design includes advanced X-form hull (a first in India) and several radar, acoustic, and Infra-Red suppression measures. The corvette, with a full load displacement of 3,400 tons is geared for ASW missions with an array of torpedos, hull-mounted & towed-array sonars and several processing stations dedicated for submarine-hunting. The ship would receive a 16-cell Barak-1 SAM suite in the future. The capability to launch an anti-submarine version of the Klub missile through torpedo tubes is said to exist, with transfer of Klubs for Kamorta being documented in SIPRI, but such capability is not officially mentioned.
Another 8 corvettes of an improved design under Project-28A could be cleared for construction after the 3rd & 4th vessels (which will bring some new design developments as compared to 1st and 2nd ones) of present class are completed.
New Generation Corvettes
With the indigenous ship design agencies already jam-packed, the design for 16 new guided missile corvettes will be acquired from a European or Russian design agency and then they will be constructed in India with some modifications. Picture of Swedish Visby-class is only for depiction, although that design is most likely to be among the competitors.
*While the SLEP upgrade of P-15 Delhi destroyers is a sure thing to happen, the exact systems & weapons to be included in that upgrade are not yet confirmed so have that one with a pinch of salt.
Another matter that deserves mention is the possible upgrade of 3 existing Project-16A frigates with Maitri/Barak-1 SAMs and new electronic systems. Tube-launched BrahMos-1 cannot be ruled out either.
On top of the 7 new destroyers under P-15A/B, there are rumors of upto 8 to 12 more next-generation destroyers of a new design, with indigenous AESA-based multi-function radars and fully integrated masts. Then again, it's just a rumor, although defence analysts have confirmed that IN plans to have a fleet of 24 destroyers total.
PART - II
Aircraft Carriers, Support Ships & Amphibious Warfare Vessels
Project-71 IAC-1 (Vikrant-Class) Aircraft Carrier
The first carrier-class to be designed & built in India. The IAC-1 is a gas turbine-powered STOBAR configuration with MiG-29K and NLCA Tejas jet fighters outlined for operations from it's deck. It can carry a total 30 aircraft, including flight & hangar deck storage. Full-load displacement will be around 40,000 tons. The remainder of the air-wing consists of Ka-31 Helix-B AEW helicopters, Dhruv Mk.3 & Sea King transport/ASW helicopters. The Sea Kings will be replaced in due course by a new NMRH - most likely S-70B-2 Sea Hawk.
The electronics will consist of an MFSTAR multifunction AESA radar, a 3D AESA-based search radar (most likely RAN-40L), an indigenous combat management system, and a suite of BEL-built hull-mounted sonars. The ship will have it's own compliment of 32 Barak-8 SAMs as well as 4 CIWS mounts of 30mm caliber. The maximum speed under propulsion is quoted as 30 knots.
Currently the carrier's hull is almost complete and according to sources, propulsion has been integrated. The ship is being built using modular methods, with the 'island' superstructure nearing completion as well and awaiting installation into place.
The Vikrant will be operated by the Eastern Naval Command.
Vikramaditya (Admiral Gorshkov/Kiev)-Class Aircraft Carrier
Although the ship itself, displacing 45,500 tons and capable of carrying 26 aircraft in total, is inducted & operational with the Western Naval Command, there still remains the program to outfit it with Barak-8 SAMs and a new CIWS system. The Vikramaditya operates MiG-29K fighters & Ka-31 AEW, Dhruv, Sea King, Ka-28PL and Chetak helicopters.
Vishaal (IAC-2)-Class Aircraft Carrier
Although details remain sketchy, it can be said with almost-certainty that the IAC-2 will be built with the following features to boot : a displacement of around 65,000 tons (don't know for sure if full-load or not), CATOBAR configuration with the option of EMALS (US has already made clear it's offer) and nuclear propulsion using the same 180-200MW Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR) that is being developed for future submarine-classes.
The most sketchy part of the details remains the air-wing. It may consist of either a naval version of FGFA, or Rafale-M taking advantage of IAF's MMRCA deal, which will eventually be replaced by a naval AMCA. The CATOBAR configuration allows for the operation of aircraft such as E-2D Advanced Hawkeye and UCAVs. Little is known about the rest of this carrier.
Although only one has be contemplated so far, we can expect a 2nd ship of this class when the time comes to replace the Vikramaditya. The IN intends for a 3-carrier force, one for Bay of Bengal/China, one for Arabian Sea/Pakistan/Middle East and one on standby or in refit, and according to prominent defence analysts, the IN could standardize on Vishaal & improved designs of the same class by the time the Viki & IAC-1 are to be replaced or transferred into reserves...hinting at a 3rd ship of this class.
Landing Helicopter Docks
Competition for 4 LHDs, 2 of which will be bought from abroad and the remaining 2 built in India. As per the latest of unofficial reports, the Spanish Juan Carlos-I and the French Mistral-class ships are leading the fray for providing four vessels for the IN. Respectively they have displacements of 26,000 tons & 21,300 tons and can transport between 900+ troops & 40-46 main battle tanks along with a plethora of 20-30 helicopters from the flight deck.
Fleet Support Ships
The MoD had recently cleared the procurement of five large Fleet Support Ships (FSS) designed to accompany the CBGs or assist in other amphibious operations. The FSS are to have full-load displacements of around 40,000 tons and will be capable of both astern & abeam transfer of equipment & replenishments for at-sea naval warfare units. No data as yet about the possible competitors or exact method of acquisition. Most probably foreign design will be modified & built in India. Picture of DCNS BRAVE-class ship only for depiction, although that model is likely to be among the competition.
PART - III
Submarines (Nuclear & Conventional)
Ballistic Missile Submarines (SSBN)
S-5 "Avinash" Class
The S-5 are the definitive underwater deterrence platforms of the Indian nuclear triad. A total of 3 submarines of this class have been outlined, each one with a submerged displacement of approximately 20,000 tons and capable of carrying between 12 to 24 intercontinental ballistic missiles with Multiple Independently targeted Re-entry Vehicles (MIRVs). The K-5 SLBM with an estimated range of 6,500 to 8,500 kilometers is being developed for the purpose.
It is not known if the S-5 submarine-class will be made to carry BrahMos cruise missiles in their torpedo tubes for defence against warships.
The same "Shipbuilding Center" in Vizag on India's East Coast that is building the Arihant-class submarines will take up construction of the much larger S-5 afterwards. The vessels will be a powered by a new-generation 180-200MW pressurized water reactor being designed & developed by the DAE & BARC.
Cruise Missile Submarines (SSGN)
S-2 Arihant-Class
The 3 Arihant-class nuclear submarines (1st one currently undergoing sea trials with the 2nd one most probably being fitted out), originally built as SSBNs, will be converted to an SSGN role carrying the Nirbhay 1,000+ km land-attack cruise missiles & the BrahMos 300km anti-ship cruise missiles in it's silos and torpedo tubes.
It is estimated that each of an Arihant-class vessel's 4 silos can carry upto 5 Nirbhay missiles, giving a total of 20 such missiles in the silos, discounting any number that can also be carried in the torpedo tubes. The Arihant has a surfaced displacement of around 6,000 tons and an unspecified submerged displacement, estimated by unofficial sources as around 7,000 tons.
Attack Submarines (SSN)
The Indian Navy and the MoD have recently outlined a requirement for, to begin with, 6 attack submarines with nuclear propulsion. While it is estimated by naval analysts that this number could grow to anywhere between 9 to 18 in due course - the design of the submarine has not been revealed so far.
Considering various sources, it has been deduced that it would be one of three possible designs:
1) A slightly dowsized version of the Arihant-class design, but without any vertical SLBM launch silos & incorporating considerable acoustic-signature reduction measures
2) Based on a Russian Akula/Yasen-inspired design, with completely re-done interior & aesthetics
3) Based on the French DCNS Barracuda-class SSN design
All three offers would end up having the same reactor (derived from the one meant to go onboard S-5 SSBN). An approximate displacement of around 5,000 tons has been reportedly specified. The submarines will be capable of launching torpedos & anti-ship cruise missiles from the TTubes.
Conventional Attack Submarines (SSK)
Project-75I
The P-75I is a submarine tender which specifies the procurement of 6 advanced conventionally-powered submarines with fuel cell Air-Independent Propulsion (AIP) and the capability to launch BrahMos cruise missiles. While the details of the tender are already known, the choice of submarine, looking from a logistical & economic perspective, had better be the S80 Super Scorpene, which has a displacement of about 2,400 tons.
Scorpene-Class
The Mazagon Dock Ltd. (MDL) is currently engaged in building 6 of these advanced conventional submarines for the IN, each with a displacement of 1,560 tons, and the first one having been named INS Kalvari. The procurement has been repeatedly delayed with the first submarine expected to enter service in 2016. The order book is likely to be increase to 9 from the present 6 by next year.
The IN Scorpenes will be equipped to launch SM-39 Exocet anti-ship cruise missiles and an as-yet-unselected new-generation heavyweight torpedo, with the choices being the SeaHake Mod4 and the Black Shark.
Current prospects aim at 12 nuclear and 12-15 conventional submarines, with the nuclear number being capable of growing to anywhere upto 24. And the total number then grow upto 40 odd vessels. Indian Navy may have more than 40 submarines if it continues to upgrade present fleet of Sindhughosh class or Russian Kilo class Diesel electric vessels. They can be operated for another 20-25 years after their refit, hull modification and upgradation in weapons and sensor suite structure.
