Empowering Aatmanirbhar Bharat: GRSE signs MoU with Merlinhawk for strategic projects

• Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Ltd signed a MoU with Merlinhawk Aerospace Pvt. Ltd
• This collaboration is a major boost for the country's Atmanirbhar Bharat and ‘Make in India’ initiatives
• GRSE excels in warships, bridges, specialized vessels, securing international contracts for diverse projects

In a significant move to bolster India's defence capabilities through indigenous development, Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) Ltd has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Bengaluru-based Merlinhawk Aerospace Pvt. Ltd. This collaboration aims to pioneer advancements in various strategic defence projects. The MoU was formalized on Friday, July 19, 2024, with key representatives from both organizations present.

The MoU was signed by CDR Shantanu Bose, IN (Retd.), Director (Shipbuilding) at GRSE, and Shri R Ramachandra Rao, Managing Director at Merlinhawk Aerospace. The ceremony witnessed the esteemed presence of CMDE PR Hari, IN (Retd.), Chairman & Managing Director of GRSE, along with other senior officials from both organizations. 

The partnership between GRSE and Merlinhawk Aerospace encompasses the development of various advanced systems crucial for naval operations. These include the 'Composite Doors and Hatches' which are essential for enhancing the structural integrity and durability of naval ships. Moreover, it also consists of 'Counter UAV Solutions' that is utilizing Electro-Optical Fire Control Systems (EOFCS) to bolster defensive measures against unmanned aerial threats.

'Electro-Optical Infra-Red Search and Track (EOIRST) Systems' for enhancing surveillance and tracking capabilities for naval operations. 'Composite Masts' for improved performance and stealth in Indian Navy ships and lastly, the 'Hydrogen Fuel Cells' for sustainable power generation in maritime applications were crucial aspects of this.

This collaboration marks a significant stride towards the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' (Self-Reliant India) and 'Make in India' initiatives. GRSE has consistently sought to leverage technological expertise from the private sector to develop indigenous solutions. The partnership with Merlinhawk Aerospace is a testament to this ongoing effort.

GRSE holds a distinguished record of delivering the highest number of warships (109) to India’s maritime defence forces and exporting to several nations. The company’s recent initiatives, such as the GRSE Accelerated Innovation Nurturing Scheme (GAINS), underscore its commitment to fostering innovation in shipbuilding by engaging with start-ups and MSMEs.

While warship building remains GRSE’s core competency, the company has diversified into various fields, including ship repairs, refits, and the manufacture of naval surface guns. GRSE is also involved in building specialized vessels for domestic and international markets. Notably, the company has signed contracts for an Ocean Research Vessel for the National Centre for Polar & Ocean Research (NCPOR) and several multi-purpose vessels for international clients, including Bangladesh and a German company.