Kamorta-class

The Kamorta class, designated Project 28, is a series of four anti-submarine warfare corvettes operated by the Indian Navy. Approved in 2003, the project was executed by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE) in Kolkata. The design originated from the Russian Project 2038.2 but was finalized by the Indian Navy’s Directorate of Naval Design. The class replaces the Kora class in precedence and the Abhay class in operational role. Construction involved approximately 90% indigenous content, utilizing domestic high-tensile steel and carbon fiber reinforced plastic.

The hull employs an X-shape design and infrared signature suppression to manage signatures. The final two units, Kiltan and Kavaratti, feature composite superstructures to reduce weight and enhance fire resistance. The propulsion system uses a Combined Diesel and Diesel (CODAD) arrangement with raft-mounted engines and noise-suppressing gearboxes to reduce acoustic vibration. Onboard systems include technology for nuclear, biological, and chemical (NBC) warfare environments, alongside an Integrated Ship Management System that combines platform and bridge management.

The ships are equipped with 3-D acquisition radar, bow-mounted sonar, and fire-control systems. Armament consists of a main gun in a stealth mount, anti-submarine rocket launchers, torpedo tubes, and close-in weapon systems. There is a provision for the future integration of vertical launch surface-to-air missiles. Aviation facilities include a foldable hangar and a rail-less traversing system for a single helicopter, such as the Ka-28 PL or HAL Dhruv.

Construction of the lead vessel, Kamorta, began in 2005, with commissioning in 2014. Kadmatt entered service in 2016, followed by Kiltan in 2017 and Kavaratti in 2020. The vessels are named after islands in the Lakshadweep archipelago, following the naming convention of the earlier Arnala class. The design was offered for export to the Philippines in 2016 and Brazil in 2018. The Philippine bid was disqualified based on financial capability requirements, and the Brazilian proposal was not shortlisted. All four vessels remain in active service.