The Ministry of Defence announced the keel laying ceremony of the first Next Generation Missile Vessel (NGMV) for the Indian Navy, held at Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) in Kochi on September 18, 2026. Vice Admiral Sanjay Sadhu, Controller of Warship Production & Acquisition, served as the Chief Guest for the ceremony, with senior officials from both the Indian Navy and CSL in attendance.
The NGMV project stems from a construction contract awarded to Cochin Shipyard Limited in March 2023. The vessels are designed to be equipped with state-of-the-art weapon and sensor systems, which are expected to significantly enhance the combat capabilities of the Indian Navy, positioning it as a 'Future Ready and Combat Ready Force'. The construction reinforces India's commitment to building a strong and modern navy capable of operating effectively in the complex maritime environment of the Indian Ocean Region.
The project underscores the growing indigenous capabilities of India's defense industry, with all major role-defining equipment being indigenously developed and manufactured. This initiative aligns with the Government of India's vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India), Make in India, and Make for the World programs, emphasizing domestic production and technological self-sufficiency in defense manufacturing.