The Ministry of Defence has signed a contract worth Rs 498.58 crore with Cochin Shipyard Limited for the normal refit and re-powering of Indian Naval Ship INS Betwa.
The contract was signed in New Delhi on November 11, 2026, in the presence of Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh.
Editorial Insight
Key Highlights
Important points readers should notice.
Contract value: Rs 498.58 crore.
Contract awarded to Cochin Shipyard Limited.
Project covers the normal refit and re-powering of INS Betwa.
Existing steam-based propulsion system will be replaced with a diesel-engine-based system.
Combat capabilities will be upgraded through a modernised weapon suite.
More than 50 MSMEs are expected to participate.
Under the project, INS Betwa, a Brahmaputra-class frigate of the Indian Navy, will undergo a major transformation of its propulsion system. Its existing steam-based propulsion system will be replaced with a diesel-engine-based propulsion system.
The refit will also include an upgrade to the warship's combat capabilities through the installation of a modernised weapon suite. The changes are intended to enhance the vessel's operational effectiveness.
The project is expected to strengthen India's indigenous ship repair and maintenance capabilities, particularly in undertaking complex propulsion system transformations and modernising naval platforms.
Editorial Analysis
Why This Matters
The project will strengthen India's domestic naval ship repair and maintenance ecosystem. The propulsion-system transformation will also develop indigenous capabilities in complex warship modernisation while creating opportunities for MSMEs.
According to the Ministry of Defence, more than 50 micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) are expected to participate in the project. It is also expected to generate significant employment opportunities across India's shipbuilding and ancillary industries.
The project will support the government's Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India initiatives while strengthening domestic capabilities in naval ship repair, maintenance and modernisation.
