Ministry of Defence Inks Rs 15,000 Crore Deal for Next-Gen Corvettes

The Defence Contract

On June 12, 2026, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) finalized a major procurement contract worth Rs 15,000 crore under the 'Buy (Indian-IDDM)' category. The contract was awarded to the Kolkata-based Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) to construct six Next-Generation Corvettes (NGC) for the Indian Navy. Delivery is expected to commence by 2030.

Background & Strategic Impact

The acquisition of NGCs is a critical component of the Indian Navy's modernization drive to counter the increasing maritime presence of adversarial fleets in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). The NGCs are highly versatile stealth vessels designed for multiple roles, including surveillance missions, escort operations, and anti-submarine warfare (ASW). The deal aligns with the 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' (Self-Reliant India) initiative, boosting domestic defense manufacturing.

Key Specifications of NGCs

• Displacement: Approx 3,500 tonnes
• Top Speed: 35 Knots
• Armament: Surface-to-Surface Missiles (BrahMos), Anti-Air Defence Systems, and advanced torpedo launchers.
• Indigenous Content: The vessels will feature over 80% indigenous content, including the radar and propulsion systems.

Static GK & Related Facts

• GRSE: Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers is a Miniratna Category 1 Defence PSU headquartered in Kolkata. It was the first Indian shipyard to build 100 warships.
• Buy (Indian-IDDM): Indigenously Designed, Developed and Manufactured. This is the most preferred category of defense procurement under the Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP) 2020.
• Indian Navy Chief: Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi (as of 2026).