Navy launches cadet training ship INS Krishna

• INS Krishna (Yard 18003), the first of the three Cadet Training Ships (CTS) was launched at L&T Shipbuilding, Chennai on February 16.

• The contract for indigenous design and construction of three Cadet Training Ships was concluded between the Ministry of Defence and L&T on March 7, 2023. 

• Formal delivery of the ship to the Indian Navy is planned by the end of 2026. 

• The new CTS series has been conceived as a dedicated floating classroom and living lab for cadets. 

• The ships will embark officer trainees, including women, soon after they complete their basic training ashore and take them through practical drills, navigation, seamanship and watch‑keeping in real maritime conditions. 

• In line with India’s growing defence partnerships, the platforms will also host cadets from friendly foreign countries, turning them into instruments of naval diplomacy as well as training assets.

• This is yet another significant milestone in Indian Navy’s pursuit towards indigenous shipbuilding and is in consonance with the vision of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ and ‘Make in India’ initiative.

(The author is a trainer for Civil Services aspirants.)