The Indian Register of Shipping’s ‘Rules for Construction and Classification of Indian Naval Ships – 2023’ were released by the Hon’ble Raksha Rajya Mantri (Minister of State for Defence) Shri Ajay Bhatt, in presence of the Chief of Defence Staff, Chief of Naval Staff, Commanders-in-Chief, Principal Staff Officers, senior Commanders on 4th September 2023, the opening day of the Naval Commanders Conference 2023, being held in New Delhi. Executive Chairman of Indian Register of Shipping accompanied by Head Defence and Principal Naval Adviser were also present on this occasion.

The 2023 version of IRS Naval Rules incorporates the latest IMO/IACS requirements, as well as Rule requirements for military design features. In addition, Rule-related requirements for the technological advancements currently being incorporated in designs of Naval Ships, covering materials, structures, propulsion and other engineering systems, integrated electronics, safety systems etc. have been included.

These Rules were finalised in collaboration with the concerned technical directorates of the Indian Navy under the auspices of the Chief of Materiel and the Controller of Warship Production and Acquisition.

Currently, 39 major vessels being built for the Indian Navy are being classified by the Indian Register of Shipping, as per the IRS Naval Rules. These include OPVs, Missile Vessels, Survey Vessels (Large), SWASWC vessels, Diving Support Vessels, Diving Support Crafts and Cadets’ Training Ships.

Mr. Arun Sharma, IRS Executive Chairman said, ‘IRS Naval Rules 2023, are a testament to close cooperation and synergy with the Indian Navy, in achieving the goal of Atma-Nirbhar Bharat. Indian Register of Shipping is fully geared to work with shipyards and the maritime industry for efficient execution of Naval shipbuilding programmes as per compliance guidelines indicated in these Rules.’