Question 16 from UPSC CSE 2016 - Current
Affairs

Question

Which one of the following is the best description of 'INS Astradharini', that was in the news recently?

IASCODEX · Accepted Answer

Correct Option: C. Torpedo launch and recovery vessel

Strategy: Identify the precise role of INS Astradharini and match it with the provided options.

Key Info: **INS Astradharini**
- INS Astradharini is India's first indigenously designed and built Torpedo Launch and Recovery Vessel (TLRV).
- It was commissioned into the Indian Navy in October 2015.
- The vessel was designed by the Naval Science and Technological Laboratory (NSTL), Visakhapatnam, and built by Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL).
- Its primary role is to carry out the trials of various underwater weapons systems, including torpedoes and sonar systems, and to recover fired torpedoes for analysis and reuse.
- The vessel plays a crucial role in enhancing India's capabilities in indigenous weapon development and testing, thereby contributing to naval self-reliance.

**Amphibious warfare ship**
- These vessels are designed to support amphibious assault operations, transporting troops, vehicles, and landing craft to coastal areas for rapid deployment. An example in the Indian Navy is INS Jalashwa.

**Nuclear-powered submarine**
- These submarines use nuclear reactors for propulsion, offering extended endurance and range without the need for frequent refueling. They are vital for strategic deterrence, exemplified by India's INS Arihant class.

**Nuclear-powered aircraft carrier**
- These are large warships with a nuclear propulsion system, serving as sea-based airfields. They provide immense power projection capabilities and long operational endurance. Currently, India operates conventional (not nuclear-powered) aircraft carriers like INS Vikramaditya and INS Vikrant.

IASCODEX · Answer

Option A: Amphibious warfare ship

IASCODEX · Answer

Option B: Nuclear-powered submarine

IASCODEX · Answer

Option D: Nuclear-powered aircraft carrier