Visakhapatnam NSTL Showcases India’s Cutting-Edge Naval Technology to Lawmakers

As part of efforts to assess India’s progress towards self-reliance in the defence sector, the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Defence recently visited the Naval Science and Technological Laboratory (NSTL) in Visakhapatnam. The committee, led by senior leader Radha Mohan Singh, reviewed the development of advanced underwater weapons and technologies required by the Indian Navy.

Showcase of Key Weapons and Technologies

During the visit, NSTL officials showcased several critical indigenously developed weapon systems. Among them was Varunastra , India’s proud heavy-weight anti-submarine torpedo, known for its formidable capability to detect and neutralise enemy submarines underwater.

The committee was also briefed on light-weight torpedoes, electric heavy-weight torpedoes, and state-of-the-art underwater mines. Officials introduced SMART , a game-changing long-range anti-submarine warfare system. In addition, the panel closely examined autonomous unmanned underwater vehicles and their advanced “swarm” technology.

The committee later witnessed hydrodynamic testing of warship models at NSTL’s renowned Sea-Keeping and Manoeuvring Basin . This specialised facility enables laboratory-based testing of warship stability, speed and manoeuvrability under simulated ocean wave conditions.

Expert Interactions and Future Roadmap

DRDO Chairman Dr Samir V. Kamat and NSTL Director Dr Abraham Varghese briefed the committee on ongoing research initiatives being undertaken in collaboration with industry and academic institutions. The panel appreciated India’s steady progress in the fields of Maritime Domain Awareness and Underwater Domain Awareness.

INS Sagar Dhvani Flagged Off in Kochi

Prior to the Visakhapatnam visit, the committee toured the Naval Physical and Oceanographic Laboratory (NPOL) in Kochi, where it reviewed sonar systems. The members also flagged off the research vessel INS Sagar Dhvani for the Sagar Maitri-5 mission, aimed at advancing oceanographic studies.

Expressing satisfaction over the visits, the Parliamentary Standing Committee noted that these initiatives reflect India’s growing self-reliance and enhanced capabilities in underwater warfare for the Indian Navy.