Faster indigenisation to attain self-reliance in warship and submarine building was one of the key issues discussed during the four-day Navy Commanders’ Conference ending on Saturday. Navy chief Admiral RK Dhowan stressed the need for better co-ordination with Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), public and private sectors in manufacturing weapons and sensors besides ships.
His message to the top brass came in the backdrop of the Navy at present building 45 warships and submarines within the country. Moreover, the NDA Government has cleared a proposal worth over Rs50,000 crore for construction of six submarines as part of ‘Make in India’ programme. These conventional submarines will be built at an Indian shipyard in collaboration with foreign submarine manufacturer.
During the course of the conference, the Commanders also reviewed the progress of airfield infrastructure, security of Naval Air Stations, dockyards and naval establishments. In addition metrological and oceanographic initiatives being undertaken in support of naval operations were also discussed.
Emphasising that combat readiness of the fleet and other operational formations is of prime importance, Dhowan said focused efforts, as hitherto, are required at all levels to ensure sustained growth of the Navy into a formidable multi-dimensional force.
The Navy chief also took stock of improvements being made to the logistics delivery chain and the implementation of e-procurement in the Indian Navy. He stressed the need for constant review and refinement of the Navy’s logistics support structures to ensure that its combat units and formations receive quality logistics support while maintaining a high operational tempo.