Steel Cut for Navy’s 2nd Fleet Support Ship

The Ministry of Defence had signed a ₹19,000 crore contract with Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL) in August 2023 for the construction of five Fleet Support Ships.

These ships will bolster the navy’s ability to replenish the Fleet at sea, thereby extending the operational range and endurance of the warships.

The production of the second Fleet Support Ship (FSS) has commenced with the steel-cutting ceremony held at the L&T Shipyard in Kattupalli, Tamil Nadu, on December 11, 2024.

This event marks a significant step in the ongoing efforts to enhance its operational capabilities and self-reliance in shipbuilding, thus going in for for a full Aatmanirbhar Bharat.

The first FSS is expected to be delivered by mid-2027, with subsequent ships following at intervals of 10 to 12 months. The concurrent construction at both HSL and L&T is designed to meet these firm timelines.

The FSS will be approximately 225 meters long and 32 meters wide, with a displacement of around 40,000 tonnes.

They will be equipped to carry fuel, water, ammunition, and other supplies necessary for prolonged naval operations of the fleet without returning to port.

Additionally, these vessels will also have capabilities for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations.

The FSS features an indigenous design developed by HSL’s in-house design bureau, with significant components sourced from domestic manufacturers.

This not only supports local industry but also aims to create employment opportunities, generating nearly 168.8 lakh man-days over the project’s duration.

These ships are crucial for enhancing the Indian Navy’s “blue water” capabilities, allowing the Task Forces to conduct extended operations in the Indian Ocean region amidst growing maritime responsibilities.

Very soon HSL should start designing Flotilla level support ships with around 20000 ton displacement of which around 8 will be required at the minimum.