New Delhi: Ministry of Defence has signed a Rs 498.58 crore contract with Cochin Shipyard Limited for the refit and repowering of Indian Navy ship INS Betwa. The agreement was signed in New Delhi on November 11, 2026, in the presence of Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh. The project will upgrade the frigate’s propulsion system and combat capabilities.
INS Betwa, a Brahmaputra-class frigate, will undergo a major transformation under the contract. The project will replace its existing steam-based propulsion system with a diesel-engine-based system. This change will modernise the vessel’s propulsion arrangements and enhance its operational effectiveness.
The refit will also include the installation of an upgraded weapon suite. The modernised combat equipment is expected to strengthen the ship’s operational capabilities. Together, the propulsion and weapon upgrades form the main components of the naval modernisation project.
INS Betwa refit to support indigenous ship repair industry
The project is also expected to strengthen India’s domestic ship repair and maintenance sector. In particular, it will build indigenous expertise in complex propulsion system conversions and the modernisation of naval platforms. The work will support the country’s ability to undertake advanced naval maintenance projects within India.
More than 50 micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) are expected to participate in the project. Their involvement is likely to generate employment opportunities across India’s shipbuilding and ancillary industries. It will also expand the role of domestic businesses in supporting naval modernisation.
The Defence Ministry said the project would advance the government’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India initiatives. It is expected to reinforce indigenous capabilities in naval ship repair and maintenance. The contract with Cochin Shipyard marks a significant step in upgrading INS Betwa while supporting India’s domestic defence industrial ecosystem.
