The Indian Navy will commission the indigenous Multi-Purpose Vessel Samarthak at Naval Base, Karwar on 16 October 2026. Built by Larsen & Toubro Ltd under the Government of India's Make in India initiative, Samarthak represents the first of two Multi-Purpose Vessels being inducted into the Indian Navy. This commissioning marks a significant milestone in India's drive towards defence self-reliance and forms an important component of the Navy's future operational capabilities.
The vessel is designed primarily for maritime surveillance and patrol operations, with additional capabilities including undertaking Low Intensity Maritime Operations (LIMO), serving as a Target Deployment & Trials Platform, functioning as an Unmanned/autonomous System Mothership, providing Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR), conversion to a limited hospital ship, and participating in salvage operations. The warship features an integrated combat suite that combines indigenous sensors, weapons and electronic systems specifically optimized for operations in challenging maritime environments.
The crest of Samarthak features the formidable Indian elephant emerging from the waves, symbolising strength, intelligence and agility. The ship's motto is "विजयार्थम् एकनिष्ठता" which translates to "Victory is Our Sole Aim." The vessel is positioned as an ideal "utility" ship for strategically important operations, enhancing the Indian Navy's operational flexibility and indigenous defense capabilities.