High potential of military-civilian shipbuilding synergy – Firstpost

The CEO of Norway’s Kongsberg Gruppen, Geir Haoy, emphasized the importance of adapting civilian platforms for military use to accelerate defence production and enhance standardization. As European nations face increasing pressure to bolster military spending under President Donald Trump, the need for efficiency and cost-effectiveness in shipbuilding processes becomes paramount. This article delves into the complexities of combining military and commercial shipbuilding, post-WWII shipbuilding trends, and the burgeoning Indian shipbuilding industry.

Shipbuilding Process:

The construction of warships involves a multifaceted process encompassing engineering, procurement, fabrication, and construction. Modern shipbuilding companies leverage advanced technologies to build sophisticated naval ships and submarines. The shipbuilding industry has evolved significantly post-WWII, with countries like Japan, South Korea, and China emerging as dominant players through strategic investments and state support.

Complexities of Combining Military and Commercial Shipbuilding:

Many countries are exploring the convergence of civilian and military shipbuilding to enhance competitiveness in both commercial and foreign military markets. While there is potential for expanding shipbuilders’ customer base by constructing both commercial and military ships in the same yard, there are significant disparities between the construction of commercial and military vessels.

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Advantage of Integrating:

While historical trends have leaned towards specialization rather than integration, merging commercial and military production can yield mutual benefits. Some Japanese shipyards have successfully integrated military technological advances into commercial construction. India’s shipbuilding industry shows promise with major shipyards like Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) and Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL) gaining traction.

Indian Shipbuilding Industry:

India’s strategic location and growing shipbuilding infrastructure position it as a key player in the global shipbuilding industry. Major shipyards in Visakhapatnam, Kochi, Kolkata, Goa, and Mumbai contribute significantly to India’s shipbuilding capabilities. With initiatives like Maritime India Vision 2030 and Amrit Kaal 2047, India aims to climb the ranks and become a top player in shipbuilding by 2047.

Way Ahead for India:

As India’s shipbuilding industry continues to evolve, strategic interventions and policy support are essential to propel the sector towards exponential growth. With a diverse range of shipbuilding entities across cities like Mumbai, Kochi, Goa, and Kolkata, India’s shipbuilding landscape presents immense potential for expansion and innovation.