Defence sources indicated that the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) is expected to approve issuing a tender worth approximately Rs 70,000 crore to Indian shipyards under the 'Make in India' initiative, including private sector shipyards.
One of the key projects under consideration is the Indian Navy’s Project 17 Bravo, which involves the construction of seven advanced stealth frigates. This initiative, valued at approximately Rs 70,000 crore, aims to enhance the Navy's capabilities with the most modern warships ever built in India.
Mazagon Dockyards Limited (MDL) and Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) are the leading contenders for this project. MDL is currently constructing four frigates under Project 17A, while GRSE is building three.
In an India Today report, a source mentioned, «There is a possibility that the mega project could be split between two shipyards with the lowest bidder getting four while another could settle with three.»
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The tender for the Navy’s Project 17 Bravo will be likely directed at Category A shipyards, including MDL, GRSE, Goa Shipyard Limited, and Larsen & Toubro. The aim is to expedite the project by potentially splitting the order between two shipyards. The MDL and GRSE are currently engaged in constructing frigates under Project 17A, with MDL handling four and GRSE three.