May 29, 2009:
India has put the last of its three Shardul class LST (Landing Ship, Tank) into service. Designed and built in India, the 5,600 ton ship can carry 11 tanks, ten other vehicles and 500 troops. It has a crew of 156, and is armed with two (18 tube, 140.4mm) rocket launchers, two 30mm cannon, and some shoulder fired anti-aircraft missiles. A medium helicopter can be carried and operated off a landing deck. Top speed is 28 kilometers an hour, and the ship can stay at sea for 45 days before needing replenishment of supplies. Each LST cost $100 million.