The Indian Navy has taken another step towards strengthening its naval capabilities with the ‘Keel Laying’ ceremony of the third Fleet Support Ship (FSS) held at the L&T Shipyard in Kattupalli on Wednesday (July 9). The event was attended by Vice Admiral Rajaram Swaminathan, the Controller of Warship Production & Acquisition, along with senior officials from the Indian Navy, Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL), and L&T Shipyard.
This marks an important milestone in a significant contract signed between the Indian Navy and HSL in August 2023 for the acquisition of five Fleet Support Ships, with deliveries expected to begin in mid-2027. In a move that exemplifies the strength of public-private collaboration, HSL has subcontracted the construction of two ships to L&T Shipyard, ensuring the effective usage of India’s shipbuilding capacity and adherence to the project’s stringent timelines.
What role will these ships play in enhancing India’s naval operations?
The Fleet Support Ships are set to play a crucial role in boosting the Indian Navy’s ‘Blue Water’ capabilities. Designed for replenishment of fleet ships while at sea, the FSS will be responsible for carrying fuel, water, ammunition, and other essential stores, enabling prolonged operations and enhancing the mobility of naval fleets across extended maritime territories.
With a displacement of over 40,000 tonnes, these ships will be pivotal in maintaining the operational range of India’s naval forces, ensuring that ships can remain at sea for longer durations without returning to port for resupply.
What will this project’s impact on India’s defence sector be?
The project holds substantial implications for India’s indigenous shipbuilding sector and defence self-reliance. Indigenously designed and built, the FSS will use equipment sourced through Indian Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), supporting the government’s initiatives of Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India.
As part of India’s strategy to strengthen its maritime power and reduce dependence on foreign defence imports, this project provides a significant boost to the country’s shipbuilding capabilities and will contribute to the growth of the domestic defence industry.
What other roles will the FSS serve?
While primarily designed for military operations, the Fleet Support Ships will also serve a secondary role in humanitarian aid and disaster relief (HADR) operations.
The ships will be equipped for the rapid evacuation of personnel and the efficient delivery of relief materials during natural calamities. This dual-function capability further shows the strategic versatility of the FSS, extending their usefulness beyond combat missions to serve humanitarian purposes when needed.