Navy's fourth indigenous LCU launched in Kolkata

Kolkata, March 23 (IANS) The fourth indigenous Landing Craft Utility (LCU) designed and being built by the Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Ltd. (GRSE) for the Indian Navy was launched here on Monday.

Having capability of carrying Main Battle Tanks (MBTs), apart from other equipment and troops, the LCUs are designed for multi-purpose amphibious operations for the Indian Navy and the Army.

The navy had entered an agreement with GRSE for eight LCUs in 2011. The first vessel of the series was launched in March last year and is expected to be commissioned early 2016.

Speaking on the occasion, Deputy Chief of Naval Staff Vice Admiral R.K. Pattanaik said the Navy will host the international fleet review in Vishakhapatnam in February 2016 with warships from more than 30 countries expected to take part.

"The talks are on, we are expecting participation from at least 30 navies from across the world during the presidential review of the naval fleets," said Pattanaik, who also hailed the GRSE for playing a big role in India's quest for self-reliance in sophisticated shipbuilding.

The LCUs will be fitted with an advanced integrated platform management system for remote control of propulsion, auxiliary and power generating equipment. Two indigenous CRN-91 30 mm guns, to provide fire support during operations, will also be fitted onboard.

The ship can be deployed for maritime roles like maritime security, beaching/un-beaching, humanitarian relief operations and evacuation from distant islands, search and rescue operations and peace-keeping missions.