Keel Laying Ceremony Held at L&T Shipyard
On July 9, 2025, the Indian Navy achieved a key milestone with the keel laying of its third Fleet Support Ship (FSS) at the L&T Shipyard in Kattupalli. The event was graced by Vice Admiral Rajaram Swaminathan, Controller Warship Production & Acquisition, along with other senior officials from the Indian Navy, Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL), and L&T.
Strategic Contract with Hindustan Shipyard Limited
In August 2023, the Indian Navy signed a strategic contract with HSL for the acquisition of five advanced Fleet Support Ships. These vessels are expected to begin deliveries by mid-2027, bolstering India’s maritime logistics and defence capabilities in the Indian Ocean Region.
Public-Private Collaboration in Indian Shipbuilding
To ensure timely construction and leverage India’s shipbuilding capacity, HSL has subcontracted the building of two FSS vessels to L&T’s Kattupalli shipyard. This move highlights a growing and effective partnership between India’s public and private sectors under the Make in India initiative.
Enhancing Blue Water Naval Capability
The Fleet Support Ships will be vital in supporting India’s blue water naval operations. With a displacement of over 40,000 tons, each vessel will carry fuel, water, ammunition, and essential stores, enabling the Indian Navy to operate further from home shores for longer periods.
Support for Humanitarian and Disaster Relief
Besides their primary role of replenishment at sea, the FSS vessels are equipped for Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) missions. They will aid in evacuating civilians and delivering critical supplies during emergencies such as natural disasters.
Indigenous Design and Self-Reliance Push
These Fleet Support Ships are not only built in India but also integrate a wide array of indigenous systems and equipment. The initiative strongly aligns with national missions like Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Make for the World, fostering innovation and capacity-building in India’s defence sector.
Conclusion
With the keel now laid for the third FSS, the Indian Navy is taking confident strides toward expanding its operational endurance and humanitarian reach. The integration of public and private shipbuilding efforts is not only accelerating progress but also strengthening the nation’s defence ecosystem.
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