INS Beas, Third Brahmaputra-Class Frigate, Set For Rs 313 Crore Mid-Life Upgrade; To Transition From Steam-Powered To Diesel Propulsion System

Indian Navy's third Brahmaputra-class frigate, INS Beas, is set to undergo a mid-life upgrade (MLU) to adapt to evolving operational requirements.

According to a statement from the Ministry of Defence (MoD), an agreement has been signed between the MoD and the state-owned Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) to upgrade INS Beas, at an estimated cost of Rs 313.42 crore.

As part of the MLU, INS Beas's steam-based propulsion system will be replaced with a more efficient and capable diesel propulsion system.

The upgrade is scheduled for completion by 2026 and will include an advanced, modernised weapon suite with enhanced combat capabilities.

The MoD's statement highlights that this, "re-powering project marks a significant stride in the maintenance philosophy of the Indian Navy and repair capabilities of CSL. The project would involve more than 50 MSMEs and would lead to generation of employment for more than 3,500 personnel."

"The project will be a proud flag bearer of Atmanirbhar Bharat in consonance with the Make-in-India initiative of the Government of India," the statement added.