More than 50 MSMEs to benefit from naval frigate upgrade
The Ministry of Defence has signed a contract worth Rs.498.58 crore with Cochin Shipyard Limited for the Normal Refit and Re-powering of Indian Naval Ship, Betwa.
Under the contract, INS Betwa, a Brahmaputra-class frigate of the Indian Navy, will undergo a major propulsion system transformation, involving the replacement of its existing steam-based propulsion system with a diesel-engine-based propulsion system.
The refit will also include the upgradation of its combat capabilities through the installation of a modernised weapon suite, thereby enhancing the ship’s operational effectiveness, said the Defence Ministry. The contract was inked in New Delhi on 11 Nov 2026.
This project will further strengthen indigenous capabilities in the ship repair and maintenance ecosystem, particularly in undertaking complex propulsion system transformation and modernisation of naval platforms. The project is expected to involve more than 50 MSMEs and generate significant employment opportunities across the Indian shipbuilding & ancillary industries.
This project will provide a major impetus to the Government’s vision of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ and ‘Make-in-India’, while reinforcing the country’s indigenous naval ship repair and maintenance capabilities, the Ministry said. fiinews.com
