The Indian Navy launched Yard 18003 (Krishna), the first of three indigenously designed and built Cadet Training Ships (CTS), at M/s L&T, Kattupalli, Chennai, on February 16, 2026. Mrs. Anupama Chauhan launched the ship in the presence of Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan.

The ship measures 122 metres in length and 18 metres in beam, with a displacement of 4,700 tonnes. It is designed to accommodate 20 officers, 150 sailors, and 200 cadets, including women cadets and those from friendly foreign countries. The CTS will provide a dedicated platform for transitioning officer cadets from theoretical shore training to practical sea operations in navigation, seamanship, and ship-handling. Delivery is planned by end of 2026. The contract was signed with the MoD in March 2023.