VAdm. Kiran Deshmukh Lays the Keel For First Ship Of ASW SWC Project At CSL, Kochi
Keel laying of the first warship (BY 523, Mahe) of Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Craft (ASW SWC) project under construction by Cochin Shipyard Ltd, Kochi, was undertaken on 30 Aug 22 by VAdm Kiran Deshmukh, CWP&A in presence of CMD, CSL, Madhu S Nair and other senior officials of CSL and Indian Navy.
Speaking on the occasion, VAdm. Kiran Deshmukh, CWP&A, appreciated CSL efforts in achieving the milestone despite Covid constraints and resultant lockdowns. He called it a noteworthy achievement by the shipyard and commended professionalism displayed by all. Further, he highlighted that construction of these vessels is a major boost for the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ and India’s ‘Make in India’ commitment. The chief guest indicated that keel laying is a major milestone activity in the shipbuilding process and paves way for amalgamation of various blocks towards fully constructed ship. CWP&A further added that these platforms will undertake sub-surface surveillance in coastal areas with the purpose of detecting and neutralizing underwater threats.
The CMD, CSL highlighted that despite several challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic during execution of this complex shipbuilding project, the shipyard has ensured continuous production of ships through innovative solutions. He thanked the Indian Navy for their unstinted support and reiterated the shipyard’s commitment to deliver quality ships on time.
The same day, steel cutting of 6th and 7th ships (BY 528 and BY 529) of the same project was also undertaken. The steel cutting event and commencement of fabrication of any warship signifies an important milestone, as this occasion is a culmination of preparatory process and kick starts the construction phase of the ships. Being a potent anti-submarine platform, the ships will further enhance anti-submarine warfare capabilities of Indian Navy and will serve the nation in safeguarding maritime interests.