The MoD, on 25 August 2023, signed a contract with Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL), Visakhapatnam for the acquisition of five Fleet Support Ships (FSS) for the Indian Navy at a total cost of approx. Rs 19,000 crores. It would be a major boost towards achieving the goal of defense production self-sufficiency as these vessels will be designed and built in-house by HSL, Visakhapatnam. The Cabinet Committee on Safety had approved the acquisition of these vessels at its meeting on 16 August 2023.
The FSS will be employed to replenish ships at sea with fuel, water, ammunition and stores, enabling the Indian Naval Fleet to operate for extended periods without returning to port. These vessels would enhance the strategic range and mobility of the fleet. The introduction of these vessels will significantly enhance the blue water capability of the Indian Navy. Vessels may also be used for evacuation of people and for Human Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations.
The 44,000-ton fleet support vessels will be the first of its kind to be built in India by an Indian shipyard. This project will generate employment of nearly 168.8 lakh mandates over an eight year period. The construction of these vessels will provide a new dimension to the Indian shipbuilding industry and encourage the active participation of associated industries, including MSMEs. As most of the equipment and systems are sourced from indigenous manufacturers, these vessels will be the proud flagship of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ in consonance with the government’s ‘Make in India’ initiatives.
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ABB/Expert