The keel laying ceremony of the third Fleet Support Ship (FSS) for the Indian Navy was held at L&T Shipyard in Kattupalli, marking a major milestone in India’s pursuit of maritime self-reliance and operational endurance. The event took place in the presence of Vice Admiral Rajaram Swaminathan, Controller Warship Production & Acquisition, along with senior officials from the Indian Navy, Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL), and Larsen & Toubro (L&T).
The keel laying marks the formal commencement of hull construction of the warship and comes under a contract signed in August 2023 between the Indian Navy and HSL for the acquisition of five Fleet Support Ships. Deliveries of these vessels are scheduled to begin in mid-2027. Under this programme, HSL has sub-contracted the construction of two ships to L&T Shipyard, thereby optimising national shipbuilding capacity and adhering to strict delivery timelines. The collaborative model is a significant example of public-private partnership in India’s defence manufacturing sector.
Once inducted, the Fleet Support Ships will significantly boost the Indian Navy’s blue water capabilities. Each ship will have a displacement exceeding 40,000 tons and will be equipped to supply fuel, fresh water, ammunition, and various stores to naval task forces at sea. This replenishment capability will enable extended fleet operations across oceans, enhancing both mobility and endurance. In their secondary role, the FSS will also support Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations, providing rapid evacuation and relief material delivery during natural calamities.
The warships are indigenously designed and constructed, incorporating equipment sourced from Indian Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs). This endeavour represents a critical leap forward in the nation’s commitment to the principles of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, Make in India, and Make for the World. The project is poised to provide a significant impetus to the domestic shipbuilding industry, generating employment, nurturing indigenous capability, and reinforcing India’s maritime sovereignty.
