New Delhi: The Ministry of Defence has unveiled a significant initiative aimed at propelling India towards self-reliance. In a strategic move, the ministry has entered into a partnership with Hindustan Shipyard Limited, situated in Visakhapatnam, to manufacture cutting-edge fleet support ships, marking a pivotal step in bolstering the nation’s defence capabilities. The ambitious project entails the construction of five fleet support ships at an approximate cost of ₹19,000 crore. This visionary endeavour received the green light from the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), presided over by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on August 16.
The fleet ships, conceptualised and crafted by Hindustan Shipyard Limited in Visakhapatnam, represent a resounding success for indigenous shipbuilding in India. Defence insiders underscore the momentous nature of this agreement, anticipating considerable impetus for the defence production sector.
Weighing a substantial 44,000 tons each, these Fleet Support Ships (FSS) boast a remarkable cargo capacity of 25,000 tonnes. Specifically designed for refuelling, resupplying with water, and restocking ammunition for Navy vessels, the FSS will empower the Indian Navy to engage in prolonged operational deployments without necessitating a return to port. Officials from the Defence Ministry elucidated that these vessels are set to integrate into the naval fleet within an eight-year timeframe.
Forecasts indicate that the construction of these fleet support ships will generate a substantial employment surge, estimated at creating 168.8 lakh working days. The envisioned vessels are slated to become an integral part of the naval forces, constituting a momentous stride in defence capabilities. Their versatility also extends to critical missions like disaster relief efforts and evacuations of civilians from foreign territories, underscoring their multifaceted significance.
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