Shardul-class

The Shardul class consists of three landing ship tanks operated by the Indian Navy. Developed by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers as an evolution of the Magar class, the design incorporates over 90% indigenous content. The vessels were ordered in December 2001, and the contract was signed in early 2002. The class was initially designated as Landing Ship Tank (Large).

For amphibious operations, the vessels carry landing craft vehicle personnel (LCVP) to facilitate troop landings. The ships are designed to transport main battle tanks, armored vehicles, and infantry. Aviation facilities support the operation of Sea King or HAL Dhruv helicopters. The armament suite includes WM-18 rocket launchers used for beach clearing operations prior to amphibious landings. These launchers, developed by DRDO and manufactured by Larsen & Toubro, utilize a multi-tube configuration mounted on both the port and starboard sides. Defensive armament consists of CRN-91 autocannons and MANPADS.

The lead ship, Shardul, was the first vessel commissioned at the Karwar Naval Base. It has served with the 1st Training Squadron and conducted deployments to Mauritius and Sri Lanka. The second vessel, Kesari, was commissioned at Visakhapatnam before being stationed at Port Blair. Its service history includes participation in the MILAN 2012 and MILAN 2018 exercises. The third ship, Airavat, underwent sea trials in 2008 and entered service in 2009 at Visakhapatnam. All three vessels of the class remain in active service.