Chennai | 17 February 2026

In a significant boost to India’s indigenous defence capabilities, the Indian Navy launched its first Cadet Training Ship (CTS), named ‘Krishna’ (Yard 18003), at L&T Shipbuilding in Kattupalli, Chennai, Tamil Nadu.

The launch ceremony was held on 16 February 2026 in accordance with naval traditions. The ship was formally launched by Mrs. Anupama Chauhan in the presence of Anil Chauhan, Chief of Defence Staff, along with senior officers of the Indian Armed Forces and officials from L&T Shipbuilding.

🚢 About Cadet Training Ship ‘Krishna’

The vessel is the first among three Cadet Training Ships (CTS) currently under construction. It has been designed and built indigenously by L&T, marking another milestone in India’s growing self-reliance in defence manufacturing.

The ship is expected to be formally delivered to the Indian Navy by the end of 2026.

Key Purpose of the Ship:

• Sea training for officer cadets after basic training

• Training of women officer cadets

• Training support for cadets from friendly foreign nations

• Enhancing practical naval operational exposure

The induction of CTS Krishna will significantly strengthen structured maritime training and prepare future naval leaders for operational challenges at sea.

🇮🇳 Boost to Aatmanirbhar Bharat & Make in India

The launch of CTS Krishna aligns strongly with the Government of India’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision and the Make in India initiative in the defence sector. Indigenous warship and training vessel construction reduces dependency on foreign shipbuilders and strengthens India's strategic autonomy.

India has steadily expanded its domestic shipbuilding capacity over the last decade, positioning itself as a major defence manufacturing hub in the Indo-Pacific region.

⚓ Growth of Indigenous Naval Shipbuilding

The Indian Navy has consistently prioritized indigenous design and construction. From aircraft carriers to submarines and training vessels, India is increasingly relying on domestic shipyards.

Larsen & Toubro has played a crucial role in strengthening India's naval shipbuilding ecosystem, contributing to submarines, offshore patrol vessels and specialized defence platforms.

This launch further highlights India’s technological maturity in complex ship design, marine engineering and defence manufacturing.

📌 Strategic Importance

The Cadet Training Ship program ensures:

• Modernized naval training infrastructure

• Gender-inclusive training facilities

• Strengthened maritime diplomacy through foreign cadet training

• Long-term capability building for the Indian Navy

With the commissioning of CTS Krishna later in 2026, India will take another step toward becoming a fully self-reliant naval power.

🔎 Conclusion

The launch of Cadet Training Ship Krishna at L&T Kattupalli marks a landmark moment for India’s defence and maritime sector. As indigenous defence manufacturing continues to grow, such milestones reinforce India’s commitment to technological excellence, operational readiness and global maritime leadership.