Key Points

The Indian Navy marked a milestone with the keel-laying ceremony of its third fleet support ship at L&T's Kattupalli shipyard. These massive 40,000-ton vessels will significantly extend the Navy's operational reach through mid-sea replenishment. The project showcases India's growing shipbuilding prowess under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative. Designed for both combat support and disaster relief, the ships will enter service starting 2027.

Key Points: Indian Navy's Third Fleet Support Ship Keel Laid at Kattupalli

  • Third FSS strengthens Indian Navy's blue water capabilities
  • 40,000-ton ship to enable prolonged fleet operations
  • Built under public-private partnership with L&T
  • Equipped for HADR missions during natural calamities
2 min read

'Keel Laying' ceremony of third fleet support ship for Indian Navy held at Kattupalli

L&T Shipyard hosts keel-laying ceremony for Indian Navy's third 40,000-ton fleet support ship, boosting indigenous defense capabilities.

"This project is a true champion of Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiatives - Official Press Release"

New Delhi, July 9

The 'Keel Laying' ceremony of the third Fleet Support Ships (FSS) of the Indian Navy was held at L&T Shipyard, Kattupalli on Wednesday.

New Delhi [India], July 9 (ANI): The 'Keel Laying' ceremony of the third Fleet Support Ships (FSS) of the Indian Navy was held at L&T Shipyard, Kattupalli on Wednesday.

According to an official press release, the Indian Navy had signed a contract with HSL for the acquisition of Five Fleet Support Ships (FSS) in Aug 2023, with deliveries commencing mid-2027.

The release also mentioned that Vice Admiral Rajaram Swaminathan, Controller Warship Production & Acquisition and senior officials from the Indian Navy were also present during this ceremony.

Showcasing the strength of public-private partnership, HSL has sub-contracted the 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 Fleet Support Ships (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.

The release also mentioned that the ships will be equipped for Humanitarian Aid and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations for the 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.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Great to see public-private partnerships working well. L&T and HSL collaborating shows we can achieve great things when government and industry work together. More such projects please!
R
Rohit P
While this is good news, I hope the Navy ensures timely delivery. Our defense projects often face delays - hope this one sticks to the 2027 timeline.
S
Sarah B
The humanitarian capabilities are impressive! Being able to provide disaster relief while also serving military purposes makes this a truly versatile project. Well thought out.
V
Vikram M
40,000 tons displacement is massive! This will significantly enhance our Navy's operational range in the Indian Ocean region. China's increasing presence makes this even more crucial.
K
Kavya N
Make in India in action! � Hope this creates more skilled jobs in the shipbuilding sector. Our youth need such opportunities in manufacturing.

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