Norwegian company will provide 18 large waterjet propulsion systems for the Indian Navy’s next-generation guided missile ship project
New Delhi: Norwegian company Kongsberg Maritime has bagged a major contract to supply 18 large-scale advanced Kamewa waterjet propulsion systems for the project indian navyNext Generation Missile Ship Program (NGMV).Unlike traditional propellers, waterjet propellers suck in water, accelerate it, and eject it at high speeds, offering superior stealth, high-speed performance and rapid acceleration, superior maneuverability, reduced draft, ideal for shallow waters, and better survivability because there are no exposed propellers. These capabilities are critical for modern naval platforms, especially guided missile ships that require agility and precision in demanding maritime environments.The contract is with Cochin Shipyard Ltd.ships are currently being built. The NGMV program is a Rs 9,805-crore initiative launched by the Indian Navy to procure six advanced high-speed stealth frigates for anti-surface warfare. The ships will serve as primary strike platforms and will be equipped with eight BrahMos missiles, 24 VL-SRSAM missiles and advanced surveillance systems to enhance sea denial capabilities.A spokesman for Cochin Shipyard said: “We are delighted to be working with Kongsberg Marine to supply the waterjet propulsion system…Kongsberg Marine has been a valuable and reliable partner to CSL on several commercial projects in the past, an association marked by strong technical collaboration and mutual trust. We look forward to Kongsberg delivering a high-quality and reliable system that meets the stringent standards required for this important project.”“The contract is Kongsberg’s largest single waterjet order to date and marks a strong return to large-scale waterjet manufacturing after a relatively quiet period over the past decade.Anders Valkeinen, Vice President High Speed Vessels at Kongsberg Maritime, said: “This is a landmark project that demonstrates the trust placed in our waterjet technology in demanding naval applications. Our Kamewa waterjets will deliver the speed, agility and reliability these advanced missile ships require.”
