India has awarded Kongsberg Maritime a contract to deliver 18 large Kamewa waterjets for the Indian Navy’s Next Generation Missile Vessels (NGMV). The agreement represents Kongsberg’s largest waterjet order to date and reflects a resurgence in large-scale production following a slower period over the past decade.
Kamewa waterjets operate by drawing in water and expelling it at high velocity, eliminating the need for exposed propellers. This propulsion system enhances vessel speed, maneuverability, and operational efficiency while reducing noise, vibration, and fuel consumption during high-speed missions.
The NGMV program is being executed by Cochin Shipyard Limited under a contract signed in March 2023, with deliveries to the Indian Navy expected to begin by March 2027. The vessels are designed for maritime strike missions, anti-surface warfare, and sea denial operations, particularly in strategic choke points.
Each missile vessel will be equipped with advanced weapon systems, including surface-to-surface missiles, anti-missile defense systems, and air surveillance and fire control radars. Powered by GE Aerospace LM2500 gas turbine engines, the ships are expected to achieve speeds of up to 33 knots.
In addition to offensive roles, the NGMVs will support local naval defense operations and the protection of offshore assets, according to Cochin Shipyard Limited.
