Indian Navy Launches First Cadet Training Ship Krishna at L&T Chennai

New Delhi: In a major boost to India’s indigenous shipbuilding capabilities, the first Cadet Training Ship (CTS), ‘Krishna’, was launched on 16 February 2026 at L&T Shipyard, Kattupalli, Chennai, for the Indian Navy.

The vessel is being constructed by Larsen & Toubro (L&T) as part of a three-ship Cadet Training Ship project.

Ceremony Attended by Defence Leadership

The ship was ceremonially launched by Mrs. Anupama Chauhan in accordance with naval traditions, in the presence of Chief of Defence Staff Anil Chauhan. Senior officials from the Indian Armed Forces and L&T Shipbuilding attended the event.

Indigenous Design and Construction

‘Krishna’ is the first of three Cadet Training Ships being indigenously designed and built in India. The formal delivery of the vessel to the Indian Navy is planned for the end of 2026.

Role in Officer Training

The Cadet Training Ships will be used to provide sea training to Officer Cadets — including women cadets — after completion of their basic shore training. The ships will also be utilized for training cadets from Friendly Foreign Countries, enhancing India’s defence cooperation.

Strengthening Aatmanirbhar Bharat

The project marks another milestone in the Indian Navy’s push towards self-reliance in defence manufacturing. It aligns with the Government of India’s vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat and the Make in India initiative, reinforcing India’s growing capabilities in indigenous shipbuilding.

The launch of ‘Krishna’ underscores India’s continued commitment to strengthening its maritime training infrastructure and defence preparedness.