New Delhi, Oct 19: The Indian Navy is working on bolstering its operational prowess in all domains, from air and underwater to AI and quantum technology, to become an all-rounded network force endowed with multi-domain capabilities, Vice Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ajay Kochhar said on Monday.
During a curtain-raiser press conference held here ahead of Swavlamban 2026, the naval officer mentioned some of the lessons the force has drawn from recent conflicts in terms of technology adoption, and indicated that the Navy is exploring ways to acquire directed-energy weapon system — as a low-cost solution instead of firing a costly armament for bringing down relatively cheaper drones.
In April, the DRDO had carried out a successful trial of a laser-directed energy weapon system, joining a select group of nations having the new-age armament used to bring down hostile drones and unmanned aircraft.
Asked what new warships or other platforms are expected to be inducted in their timeline, the VCNS said, as far as ships are concerned, “we have 42 platforms which are on order. In addition, 78 platforms and 120 FICs (Fast Interceptor Crafts), with an estimated combined value of Rs 2.41 lakh crore, have received Acceptance of Necessity (AoN), and these are at different stages of procurement process.” On a query related to Landing Platform Docks (LPDs), he said, “I’m glad to share with you that the RFP has just been issued for four LPDs, last week to the shortlisted shipyards. And similarly for the next-generation frigate, the RFP has been issued a couple of weeks before, and responses are awaited,” he said.
The Navy will host the fifth edition of its flagship seminar at the Manekshaw Centre here on October 26 and 27. (PTI)