Mk IV LCU

The Mk IV Landing Craft Utility is an Indian Navy amphibious vessel class designed and built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers. The program supports India's requirement to move troops, vehicles, and supplies among islands, beaches, and forward littoral areas. It also reflects domestic shipbuilding policy, because the ships were presented as examples of Indian design and production capacity for practical naval support vessels.

Technically, the Mk IV LCU is a shallow-draft landing craft with a bow ramp, cargo deck, troop accommodation, and defensive gun fit. It is intended to carry personnel, vehicles, and cargo directly to shore where port infrastructure may be limited or unavailable. The design emphasizes practicality: endurance, beaching capability, cargo handling, and operation around islands are more important than high-end combat systems.

Operationally, the Mk IV LCU strengthens India's ability to sustain island territories and support amphibious operations in the Andaman and Nicobar area and other littoral zones. The vessels can move troops and equipment during military operations, but they are also useful for humanitarian assistance, evacuation, and disaster relief after cyclones or coastal emergencies. Their value lies in giving the fleet reliable, locally built connectors for the last stretch between sea and shore.