SAIL Strengthens Indian Navy’s INS Arnala with Advanced Steel: Enhancing Maritime Defense

SAIL Sets a New Standard with INS Arnala

Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL), a government-owned Maharatna company, has achieved a significant milestone by supplying the special steel needed for India’s first indigenously designed and built Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft, the INS Arnala. This vessel was recently commissioned into the Indian Navy, marking a key moment in India’s journey toward self-reliance in defense.

SAIL’s contribution is a big step in supporting the “Atmanirbhar Bharat” initiative, aimed at reducing dependency on imports. The company highlighted its role in bolstering India’s defense capabilities through domestic production and engineering. This commitment is not just symbolic; it translates into practical benefits in defense and industry.

The Navy applauded the commissioning of INS Arnala, not just for its defense capabilities but as a testament to India’s growth in indigenous design and manufacturing. SAIL has also supplied steel for seven other ASW-SWC corvettes made by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers.

In addition to the INS Arnala, SAIL has previously provided special steel for significant projects like INS Vikrant and INS Nilgiri, showcasing its longstanding involvement in supporting naval innovation.

Financial Performance Amid Challenges

Recently, SAIL reported a consolidated net profit of Rs 1,251 crore for the quarter ending March 31, 2025. This figure is an 11.1% increase from the same quarter last year when profits stood at Rs 1,125.68 crore. Sequentially, this is a notable rise from Rs 141.69 crore in Q3FY25.

The increase in profit is linked to better performance across several steel plants and a reduction in input costs. Amarendu Prakash, SAIL’s Chairman and Managing Director, mentioned that despite the hurdles posed by international tariffs and import pressures, SAIL successfully navigated these challenges. He emphasized the importance of government support for domestic steel demand, mentioning that plans for future expansions align with the National Steel Policy.

A Growing Trend Towards Defense Self-Reliance

This effort reflects a broader trend in India where defense self-reliance is becoming a priority. Recent data from the Ministry of Defence reveals that India’s defense procurement from domestic suppliers has significantly increased over the past few years. In 2021, the government aimed for a target of 68% of capital procurement to be sourced domestically, compared to just 30% a decade earlier.

The shift is not just operational but is also creating buzz on social media, where users express pride in domestically manufactured products, highlighting the growing national sentiment towards support for indigenous industries.

This partnership between SAIL and the Indian Navy illustrates a promising future for India’s defense sector. As challenges persist, the focus on self-reliance may pave the way for further advancements in technology and manufacturing in the years to come.

For more information on India’s defense policies, you can explore resources from the Ministry of Defence here.

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