Norwegian Company to Supply Advanced Waterjet Systems for Indian Navy’s Missile Vessel Project

Contract Awarded to Kongsberg Maritime

Kongsberg Maritime, a Norwegian firm, has secured a significant contract to deliver 18 advanced Kamewa waterjet propulsion systems for the Indian Navy’s next-generation missile vessel program (NGMV). These waterjets are designed to enhance the operational capabilities of the vessels, which are currently under construction at Cochin Shipyard Ltd.

Unlike traditional propellers, waterjets function by drawing in water, accelerating it, and ejecting it at high velocity. This technology offers an array of advantages, including increased stealth, high-speed performance, rapid acceleration, and improved maneuverability. Furthermore, waterjets feature a reduced draft, making them particularly effective in shallow waters. This characteristic also enhances survivability, as there are no exposed propellers, making them suitable for modern naval platforms, especially missile vessels that demand agility and precision in challenging maritime conditions.

Details of the NGMV Programme

The NGMV initiative represents a substantial investment by the Indian Navy, amounting to Rs 9,805 crore, aimed at acquiring six state-of-the-art, high-speed stealth corvettes intended for anti-surface warfare operations. These corvettes will be outfitted with a formidable arsenal, including 8 BrahMos missiles and 24 Vertical Launch Short Range Surface-to-Air Missiles (VL-SRSAM), alongside advanced surveillance systems to enhance sea-denial capabilities.

A representative from Cochin Shipyard expressed satisfaction with the collaboration with Kongsberg Maritime, emphasizing the company’s reputation as a reliable and valued partner across various commercial projects in the past. The spokesperson noted the strong technical collaboration and mutual confidence between the two firms and expressed eagerness for Kongsberg to deliver a high-quality, dependable system that meets the demanding standards of this critical project.

Impact of the Contract on Kongsberg Maritime

This contract marks Kongsberg Maritime’s largest single order for waterjet systems, indicating a robust resurgence in large-scale waterjet manufacturing for the company following a period of relative quietness over the last decade. The successful awarding of this contract reflects a renewed confidence in the company’s capabilities and its technology.

According to Anders Valkeinen, Vice-President for high-speed craft at Kongsberg Maritime, the contract signifies a milestone project, highlighting the trust placed in their waterjet technology for complex naval applications. Valkeinen emphasized that the Kamewa waterjets will provide the necessary speed, agility, and reliability essential for the advanced missile vessels in the Indian Navy’s fleet.