L&T launches first of three Indian Navy cadet training ships

Photo: Indian Register of Shipping

The Krishna, the first of three domestically-built Indian Navy cadet training ships has been launched in a ceremony at the Larsen & Toubro (L&T) Shipyard, Kattupalli, Chennai.

Classified by the Indian Register of Shipping (IRS), the vessel incorporates advanced design features with an emphasis on ergonomics, enhanced onboard training infrastructure, and efficient maintenance systems. .

Designed primarily to provide comprehensive sea training to 210 naval cadets (150 men and 60 women), the ship will also accommodate 41 women officers, reinforcing the Indian Navy’s commitment to inclusivity and gender integration.

In addition to its primary training role, the vessel has been designed to undertake secondary missions including hspital ship duties, non-combatant evacuation operations (NEO), humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR), and search and rescue (SAR) operations, thereby enhancing operational flexibility and national response capability. These capabilities enhance the Navy’s operational flexibility and response readiness.

Cdr K.K. Dhawan, (Retd) Head–Defence, IRS, said: “The launch of ‘Krishna’ marks an important milestone in strengthening India’s indigenous naval design and construction capabilities. IRClass is proud to contribute to this prestigious project by ensuring compliance with robust classification standards, aligned with global benchmarks.”

The ship is expected to be delivered by September 2026.

• Cadet training ship specifications