Why in news?
In April 2026 the Indian Navy’s fast attack craft INS Kalpeni reached the harbour of Gan in the Maldives’ Addu Atoll. The visit is part of India’s “Security and Growth for All in the Region” (SAGAR) initiative and underscores close defence cooperation with the Maldives. The vessel’s arrival coincided with another Navy ship, INS Sudarshini, making a port call in the Canary Islands during its overseas deployment.
Background
INS Kalpeni is one of 10 Fleet Cat Nicobar‑class waterjet fast attack craft built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers in Kolkata. It was commissioned into the Navy on 14 October 2010 and is named after Kalpeni Island in the Lakshadweep archipelago. Based at Kochi under the Southern Naval Command, the craft has a displacement of around 325 tonnes and can attain speeds of over 35 knots.
Design and capabilities
- Waterjet propulsion: Two large waterjets enable the vessel to manoeuvre quickly in shallow coastal waters, making it ideal for littoral operations.
- Armament: Kalpeni carries a 30 mm CRN‑91 cannon and multiple medium‑ and heavy‑machine guns for surface engagements. Shoulder‑fired Igla missiles provide limited air defence.
- Roles: The craft conducts coastal surveillance, anti‑smuggling and anti‑poaching patrols, search‑and‑rescue missions and naval presence operations. It can also perform boarding and inspection of suspicious vessels.
- Crew and support: A complement of about 45 personnel operates the craft. Support facilities at Kochi enable maintenance and training.
Significance of the recent visit
Kalpeni’s arrival at Addu Atoll highlights India’s commitment to assisting island nations in the Indian Ocean. Such visits promote interoperability, goodwill and maritime domain awareness. Under SAGAR, India has offered training, joint patrols and capacity building to regional partners to ensure a secure and stable neighbourhood.
Sources: The Times of India