Cochin Shipyard (CSL) has signed a pact with the US Navy for repairing its vessels, enabling US Navy ships in the Indian Ocean region to dock at CSL for repair works.
Cochin Shipyard (CSL) announced signing a master shipyard repair agreement (MSRA) with the United States Navy. Effective from April 5, 2024, the non-financial agreement facilitates repair works of US Naval vessels under the Military Sealift Command at CSL. The agreement follows a rigorous evaluation process and capability assessment by the US Navy – Military Sealift Command.
CSL officials refrained from detailed comments due to the ongoing Lok Sabha elections’ model code of conduct but indicated recent visits by US Navy personnel to the shipyard.
The agreement’s significance lies in granting US Navy ships access to an Indian port, although the Indian Navy disclaims involvement. Indian Navy officers in Kochi clarified that the Union government handles such agreements.
However, the signing drew criticism from CPM, alleging a dilution of non-alignment policies and potential escalation of international tensions.
