Rajnath Singh Reviews Expansion Of Karwar Naval Base In Karnataka, To Be Asia’s Largest Naval Base

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh visited the Karwar Naval Base in Karnataka on Thursday (24 June) to review the progress of ongoing infrastructure development under 'Project Seabird'.

Accompanied by Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Karambir Singh, Rajnath Singh undertook an aerial survey of the project area and sites before arriving at the INS Kadamba Heli Pad.

The Defence Minister inspected the ongoing works at the Naval Base and received on-site briefings, including capability demonstration at the Shiplift Tower.

He also undertook a tour of the Naval Harbour and reviewed the marine works being developed as part of Project Seabird Phase II-A and the operationalisation of Piers. Rajnath Singh visited the newly-constructed Sailors Married Accommodation which incorporates advanced features for water efficiency, handling of household waste, energy efficiency, and provides environment-friendly houses.

In his address, the minister expressed satisfaction at the progress of works being carried out under 'Project Seabird'. He hoped that after the completion of the project, the Kawar Naval Base would become Asia's largest Naval base which would further bolster the operational readiness of the Armed Forces and help in augmenting trade, economy and humanitarian aid operations.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is on a two-day visit to Karwar in Karnataka and Kochi in Kerala to review the Indian Navy's two critical projects — ongoing infrastructure development at the Karwar Naval Base the progress of construction of the Indigenous Aircraft Carrier INS Vikrant.

INS Kadamba (Karwar), home to India's only aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya, is currently undergoing expansion under Phase-IIA of the project. The plan, which is likely to cost around Rs 20,000, was approved a few years ago.

The base will serve as the headquarters of the proposed Maritime Theatre Command. After the phase is over, at least 32 submarines and major warships can dock at the base.