Keel Laid for Indian Navy's First Fleet Support Ship at Hindustan Shipyard Ltd., Classed by Indian Register of ShippingVisakhapatnam, India – In a significant step towards enhancing the Indian Navy's operational capabilities, the keel for the first Fleet Support Ship (FSS) under the ambitious HSL VC11200 project was laid at Hindustan Shipyard Ltd. (HSL). The ship is the first of five vessels planned in this series and represents a milestone in India's indigenous shipbuilding prowess. The keel-laying ceremony, held at the Visakhapatnam shipyard, is a testament to the country’s progress in designing and constructing advanced naval support vessels.
Project Overview
The Fleet Support Ships are being built to fulfill critical operational needs of the Indian Navy, particularly its "Blue Water" aspirations, enabling sustained naval operations far from Indian shores. These vessels will play a crucial role in replenishing fleet ships at sea with fuel, water, ammunition, and stores, eliminating the need to return to harbor frequently. Additionally, the ships are equipped for Humanitarian Aid and Disaster Relief (HADR) missions, providing support during natural calamities and emergencies, further underlining their versatility.The project is being executed with classification and certification services provided by the
Indian Register of Shipping (IRS). All five vessels in the series will be built in compliance with IRS Naval Combatant Rules, ensuring their adherence to stringent specifications and operational requirements. Delivery of these ships will be phased, with the first vessel expected to be operational by mid-2027.
Boosting Indigenous Capabilities
This project is not just about enhancing the Navy’s operational strength but is also a significant milestone for Hindustan Shipyard Ltd. It demonstrates the shipyard's ability to undertake and deliver complex projects while supporting India's broader "Make in India" and "Atma Nirbhar Bharat" initiatives.Commander KK Dhawan, Head Defence at IRS, emphasized the significance of this endeavor:
"IRS is committed to supporting the Hon'ble Prime Minister's vision for 'Make in India' and 'Atma Nirbhar Bharat.' By working in close collaboration with Hindustan Shipyard Ltd., we are ensuring the success of this prestigious Fleet Support Ship project and reinforcing India’s self-reliance in naval shipbuilding."Technological Excellence
The Fleet Support Ships are being constructed using advanced engineering and design principles, ensuring their capability to operate in demanding maritime conditions. With IRS overseeing classification, the vessels will meet stringent safety and performance standards, bolstering their operational reliability and longevity.These ships will also play a strategic role in supporting India’s maritime objectives, enabling the Navy to conduct extended missions and respond to regional challenges effectively. Their deployment will ensure India’s readiness for a wide range of operations, from extended naval patrols to disaster relief missions, aligning with the Navy’s vision of becoming a dominant force in the Indian Ocean Region.
Looking Ahead
The HSL VC11200 project is expected to boost indigenous shipbuilding expertise and create economic opportunities through local manufacturing and technological collaboration. The phased delivery of these vessels will mark a significant addition to the Indian Navy's fleet and its ability to project power and provide critical support in regional and international waters.With the
Keel Laid for the lead vessel, the project is on track to deliver cutting-edge Fleet Support Ships that will become a cornerstone of the Indian Navy’s operational strategy in the coming years.
