Vice Admiral Sanjay Sadhu Assumes Charge as Controller of Warship Production & Acquisition

On 28 November 2025, Vice Admiral Sanjay Sadhu, AVSM, NM formally assumed charge as the Controller of Warship Production & Acquisition (CWP&A), a vital post in India’s maritime defence infrastructure. His extensive experience and strategic insight make him a fitting successor to Vice Admiral Rajaram Swaminathan, who retires after 38 years of service.

A Distinguished Naval Career

Commissioned into the Indian Navy in 1987, Vice Admiral Sadhu has served the nation for over 38 years, during which he has held a range of operational, staff, and dockyard appointments. He is a Postgraduate in Mechanical Engineering and holds an MPhil in Defence and Strategic Studies, reflecting a blend of technical and strategic proficiency.

His career highlights include service on the Aircraft Carrier INS Viraat, and frontline frigates INS Brahmaputra and INS Dunagiri. These early assignments laid the foundation for his expertise in warship operations and engineering.

Leadership in Modernisation and Acquisitions

One of the key areas of Vice Admiral Sadhu’s contribution has been in naval modernization and acquisition projects. His pivotal role in the induction of Aircraft Carrier INS Vikramaditya from Russia is especially notable. He served in multiple capacities including Senior Naval Engineer Overseer at the Warship Overseeing Team in Severodvinsk, Russia, and later as Director and Principal Director Aircraft Carrier Projects at Naval Headquarters in New Delhi.

He has also worked in leadership roles in warship repair and production, such as,

• Additional General Manager (Production), Naval Dockyard, Mumbai
• Commodore Superintendent, Naval Ship Repair Yard, Karwar
• Principal Director Marine Engineering, Naval HQ

High Command and Strategic Roles

On his elevation to Flag Rank, Vice Admiral Sadhu served in top-level technical command positions, such as,

• Additional Director General, Warship Design Bureau (Submarine Design Group)
• Chief Staff Officer (Technical), Eastern and Western Naval Commands
• Admiral Superintendent, Dockyard Visakhapatnam

These roles showcase his rare distinction of having led major naval dockyards on both coasts and overseeing technical operations in both major naval commands.

Most recently, he was serving as the Programme Director for the Advanced Technology Vessel Programme in New Delhi, a classified initiative related to India’s nuclear submarine development.

Decorations and Recognition

For his exceptional service, Vice Admiral Sadhu has been awarded,

• Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM)
• Nausena Medal (NM)

These honors reflect his dedicated service and contributions to strengthening India’s naval capabilities.

Transition in Leadership

Vice Admiral Sadhu succeeds Vice Admiral Rajaram Swaminathan, AVSM, NM, who is superannuating on 30 November 2025 after an equally distinguished 38-year career. Under his leadership, eight warships were commissioned into the Indian Navy, a significant achievement in India’s maritime defence preparedness.

Key Takeaways

• Vice Admiral Sanjay Sadhu took charge as CWP&A on 28 November 2025.
• Commissioned into the Indian Navy in 1987.
• Has held key positions related to INS Vikramaditya, INS Viraat, and naval dockyards.
• Predecessor: Vice Admiral Rajaram Swaminathan.
• Awarded AVSM and NM for distinguished service.
• Has led modernization and production efforts on both coasts.