Indian Navy launches Request For Proposal for 4 amphibious vessels (LHD type)
 
The Indian Navy has launched a request for proposal to build four large projection vessels with dual helicopter carrier and amphibious role. Indian shipyards were consulted but they had no design to propose. Indian Navy is therefore contacting foreign partners for proposals.

The Indian Navy has launched a request for proposal to build four large projection vessels with dual helicopter carrier and amphibious role. Indian shipyards were consulted but they had no design to propose. Indian Navy is therefore contacting foreign partners for proposals.

 
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Naval Industry News - India / France / Spain / Italy / South Korea
 
 
 
Indian Navy launches Request For Proposal for 4 amphibious vessels (LHD type)
 
The Indian Navy has launched a request for proposal to build four large projection vessels with dual helicopter carrier and amphibious role. Indian shipyards were consulted but they had no design to propose. Indian Navy is therefore contacting foreign partners to for proposals.

Several international groups should answer the request for proposal. French shipbuilder DCNS with its Mistral class (BPC) already serving with the French Navy and soon with the Russian Navy, the Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri with its Multifunctional Ship (MS), Spain's Navantia will likely offer the Buque of Proyecciones Estratégica (BPE) and South Koreans shipbuilder Hanjin Heavy Industries could offer their amphibious assault ship from Dokdo class.
     
The Indian Navy has launched a request for proposal to build four large projection vessels with dual helicopter carrier and amphibious role. Indian shipyards were consulted but they had no design to propose. Indian Navy is therefore contacting foreign partners to for proposals.
DCNS Mistral class used by the French Navy and soon by the Russian Navy
(picture: French Navy)
     
At first glance, DCNS and Fincantieri should have some advantage over their competition as both shipbuilders already work with the Indian Navy:

DCNS is working on the Scorpene submarines and P75 engines for corvettes while the Ficantieri is involved in the Vikrant aircraft carrier (derived from the Cavour) and Deepak class replenishment ship. DCNS is even the most established foreign manufacturer in India, where it has a subsidiary and is making significant technology transfer.

The French shipbuilder can also highlight the recent choice of Russia, a leading provider of the Indian armed forces, for its Mistral class LHD.

The competition should remain very tense however, as all parties involved are experienced.
From: Mer et Marine