Visakhapatnam: Built by L&T Defence as a turnkey project, the Kalvari Submarine Escape Training Facility, named ‘Vinetra’, was officially commissioned on September 13, 2024, by Vice Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Eastern Naval Command, at INS Satavahana, Visakhapatnam.
Indigenously designed and developed, the advanced facility ‘Vinetra’ underscores India’s commitment to self-reliance in defence under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative. The facility features a five-metre escape tower integrated with a diving basin. It will provide essential basic and refresher training for the crew of Kalvari-class submarines, enhancing their preparedness in case of a submarine distress situation.
‘Vinetra’ (meaning “Trainer”), represents a crucial step in ensuring the safety and operational readiness of Indian Navy submariners, equipping them with critical escape procedures for underwater emergencies. This facility further strengthens the Navy’s safety protocols and overall training infrastructure.