In a historic first, an American naval ship reached India for repair and other allied services. US naval ship Charles Drew docked at Larsen & Toubro's shipyard at Kattupalli in Chennai on 7 August.
India's Defence Ministry called it a "huge boost" for the 'Make In India' scheme, and furthering of India-US strategic relations. The Indian government said that the event "signifies the capabilities of Indian shipyards in the global ship repairing market. Indian shipyards offer wide-ranging and cost-effective ship repair and maintenance services, using advanced maritime technology platforms."
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Top Indian officials like Defence Secretary Ajay Kumar, and Vice Chief of Naval Staff Vice Admiral SN Ghormade welcomed the ship. America was represented by US Consul General in Chennai Judith Ravin, among others.
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