‘Keel Laying’ ceremony of third Fleet Support Ships (FSS) was held at M/s L&T Shipyard, Kattupalli on 09 Jul 25, in the presence of V Adm Rajaram Swaminathan, Controller Warship Production & Acquisition and senior officials from Indian Navy, HSL and M/s L&T. The Indian Navy has signed a contract with HSL for acquisition of Five Fleet Support Ships (FSS) in Aug 2023, with deliveries commencing mid-2027. Showcasing the strength of public-private partnership, HSL has sub-contracted construction of two ships to M/s L&T Shipyard, Kattupalli to effectively utilise the country’s shipbuilding capacity and meet stringent timelines for delivery.
On induction, the FSS will bolster the ‘Blue Water’ capabilities of the Indian Navy through replenishment of Fleet ships at sea. These ships, with a displacement of more than 40,000 tons will carry fuel, water, ammunition and stores that enable prolonged and sustained operations of the fleet at sea, thus enhancing its reach and mobility. In their secondary role, the ships will be equipped for Humanitarian Aid and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations for evacuation of personnel and expeditious delivery of relief material during natural calamities.
The indigenously designed and built warship is equipped with equipment sourced through Indian OEMs. This prestigious project will significantly boost the Indian Shipbuilding Industry and is a true champion of GoI initiatives such as Aatmanirbhar Bharat, Make in India and Make for the World.
