The Indian Navy has signed a groundbreaking Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indian Institute of Technology Delhi (IIT Delhi) to enhance crew-centric warship design, marking a significant stride in India’s maritime capabilities. This partnership aims to improve habitability, safety, and operational efficiency onboard naval vessels, aligning with the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision by reducing reliance on foreign design standards. Key areas of focus will include ergonomic layouts, environmental controls, and psychological support systems to boost crew morale and performance. This collaboration not only emphasizes the human element in naval architecture but also reflects a growing trend of academia-defence synergies in India, which is crucial for adapting to modern naval warfare demands.