In a major step toward strengthening its amphibious warfare capability, the Indian Navy is preparing to issue a tender for four large Landing Platform Dock (LPD) warships, estimated to cost around ₹80,000 crore. The high-value project, one of the largest for surface warship construction in India, is expected to move forward after an upcoming Defence Ministry review.
According to defence officials, the new-generation amphibious warships will serve as command and control hubs, capable of operating fixed-wing naval drones and supporting sustained operations from sea to shore. These platforms are also expected to feature robust air defence systems, long-range anti-ship missiles, and advanced drone integration to address both defensive and offensive requirements.
The Navy has been pushing for the expansion of its amphibious warfare assets for several years, citing the need for out-of-area contingency operations and the ability to transport and deploy large combat forces when required. The ships will also play a vital role in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) missions.
Domestic and Global Collaboration
Indian shipbuilders will take the lead in the mega-project, with Larsen & Toubro (L&T), Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL), and Hindustan Shipyard Limited emerging as the main contenders. To support the complex design and integration work, leading international shipbuilders such as Spain’s Navantia, France’s Naval Group, and Italy’s Fincantieri are likely to join as technology partners.
The Navy had earlier issued a Request for Information (RFI) for the LPD project in 2021. The forthcoming tender is expected to ensure a high level of indigenisation, aligning with India’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision while leveraging foreign expertise in niche areas.
If cleared, the ₹80,000 crore initiative will mark a transformative leap in India’s naval power projection capability, enabling the Navy to conduct prolonged maritime operations, bolster amphibious assault readiness, and expand its strategic reach in the Indian Ocean Region and beyond.
