First Indigenous Cadet Training Ship ‘Krishna’ Launched in Chennai | 21 Feb 2026

Why in News?

The Indian Navy launched its first indigenously designed and built Cadet Training Ship (CTS) ‘Krishna’ at the L&T Shipyard in Kattupalli, Chennai in February 2026.

Key Points:

• First Indigenous CTS: ‘Krishna’ is the first of three Cadet Training Ships being constructed by Larsen & Toubro (L&T) for the Indian Navy under a contract signed with the Ministry of Defence.
  • Krishna’ is a fully equipped sail training and motorised vessel capable of accommodating 150 cadets and officers for training purposes.
  • The ship is named after the Krishna River, one of India’s longest rivers. 
• Launch Ceremony: The Cadet Training Ship was launched by Anupama Chauhan, the spouse of Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan.
• Strategic Importance: Enhances India’s blue-water naval capabilities by producing well-trained officers familiar with modern naval operations and life at sea.
  • The ship features modern navigation, communication, and safety systems, providing cadets hands-on experience with state-of-the-art maritime technology.
• Design and Build: The vessel has been indigenously designed and built and is expected to be delivered to the Indian Navy by the end of 2026.
• Aatmanirbhar Bharat: The project reinforces the Make in India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative by promoting indigenous defence shipbuilding capabilities.