DAC’s ₹33,000-Crore Approval Reignites India’s Long-Delayed LPD Project; First LPD Planned by 2033

The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, has approved Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for defence procurement proposals worth nearly ₹79,000 crore (about $9 billion), marking one of India’s largest multi-service acquisition rounds in recent years. The clearances encompass key capability enhancement programs for the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, focusing on indigenous platforms, self-reliance, and network-centric warfare systems.

Among the most significant approvals is a ₹33,000-crore AoN for the Landing Platform Dock (LPD) program, officially reviving the long-delayed amphibious warfare ship project, originally conceived as the Multi-Role Support Vessel (MRSV) nearly a decade ago. This decision allows the Indian Navy to issue Requests for Proposal (RFPs) to shortlisted Indian shipyards — notably Larsen & Toubro (L&T) and Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) — paving the way for price negotiations and final design finalization.

LPD Project: India’s Strategic Amphibious Capability Reborn

The Indian Navy has long sought four large Landing Platform Docks (LPDs) to strengthen its expeditionary and amphibious operations capability. The new AoN confirms that all four ships will be built in India, under the ‘Buy (Indian)’ category, with extensive indigenous content — from hull fabrication to combat systems integration.

The LPDs will serve as floating command centers capable of launching maritime strike, amphibious landing, and humanitarian assistance operations. These platforms will enable India to rapidly project power in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), reinforcing its position as a regional security provider.

Expected Design Parameters

The LPDs are expected to displace between 20,000 and 25,000 tonnes, with an overall length of about 200 to 220 meters, and an endurance of up to 45 days at sea. A Combined Diesel and Diesel (CODAD) propulsion system is likely to power the vessels, though an electric propulsion option is being considered to enhance fuel efficiency and reduce noise signatures for better stealth performance.

Each ship will feature a large flight deck capable of operating six to eight medium or heavy-lift helicopters, including Seaking, ALH Dhruv, and the upcoming IMRH. The well deck will support Landing Craft Air Cushion (LCACs) and Landing Craft Mechanized (LCMs) for troop and vehicle deployment during amphibious operations.

In addition, the ships will carry a fully integrated command and control center for task force operations, supported by modern C4ISR systems. For self-defence, they will be armed with Close-In Weapon Systems (CIWS), Super Rapid Gun Mounts (SRGM), and short-range surface-to-air missiles (SAMs). Each LPD will be able to embark around 900 troops, 20 main battle tanks, and a variety of armored and utility vehicles, giving the Navy a major boost in power projection and disaster relief capability.

Timeline and Procurement Path

With the AoN granted in October 2025, the Indian Navy is now preparing the final set of design specifications and operational requirements for the program. The Request for Proposal (RFP) is expected to be issued by mid-2026, followed by detailed evaluation and commercial negotiations.

If the process proceeds as planned, the contract signing could take place between late 2027 and 2028, setting the stage for construction to begin shortly thereafter. The first LPD is expected to be delivered by early 2033, with subsequent vessels following at regular intervals.

Both L&T’s Kattupalli Shipyard and Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) are expected to compete aggressively for the contract. Each has extensive experience in building large and complex naval platforms — L&T with its submarine modules and offshore vessels, and CSL with the successful construction of the INS Vikrant aircraft carrier and Kavaratti-class corvettes. The final selection will likely depend on cost competitiveness, delivery timelines, and indigenous content commitments.

Strategic Importance

The LPD program represents a cornerstone of India’s long-term plan to develop a blue-water navy capable of sustained operations across the Indo-Pacific. These ships will be critical for joint amphibious operations, supporting Marine Commandos (MARCOS) and Army amphibious brigades, while also playing key roles in humanitarian and disaster relief missions.

The revival of the LPD project underscores India’s commitment to Aatmanirbhar Bharat, ensuring that advanced naval shipbuilding capabilities remain within the country. It also strengthens India’s ability to act as a net security provider in the Indian Ocean Region, consistent with the government’s SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) vision.