Overview

• GRSE signed the agreement on September 3 with Merlinhawk Aerospace to design, develop and manufacture composite doors and hatches for Indian Navy ships under construction at its yard.
• The collaboration covers design, testing, manufacturing and onboard integration, replacing conventional steel units with composite assemblies that include locking mechanisms and associated components.
• Composites are presented as lighter and resistant to corrosion and moisture, offering thermal and acoustic insulation with options for integrated fire retardancy.
• GRSE says the initiative aims to achieve at least 50% indigenous content under Buy (Indian‑IDDM) or Buy (Indian), aligning with the Atmanirbhar Bharat push for defence self‑reliance.
• Recent programme context includes GRSE’s delivery of INS Himgiri, commissioned on August 26, and INS Ikshak on August 14, as well as ongoing construction of 14 warships and pending contract finalisation for Next Generation Corvettes after emerging the lowest bidder.