India’s Maritime Ambitions Take Shape: Keel-Laying of 44,000-Ton Fleet Support Ship at Hindustan Shipyard Limited

Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL) in Visakhapatnam achieved a major milestone with the keel-laying ceremony of the Indian Navy's first 44,000-ton Fleet Support Ship (FSS) on November 14, 2024. This momentous event marked the official commencement of construction on the first of five such vessels, a project that reflects India's growing self-reliance in defence manufacturing.  

The FSS project, part of a ₹19,000 crore ($2.3 billion) contract inked on August 25, 2023, is critical to bolstering the operational flexibility of the Indian Navy. These advanced ships are designed to resupply naval fleets with fuel, water, spare parts, and ammunition while at sea, enabling longer missions without the need to return to port. Delivery of the first vessel is slated for mid-2027, with subsequent ships expected to follow at intervals of 10 to 12 months.  

Technological and Strategic Highlights  

The Fleet Support Ship boasts cutting-edge features tailored for high seas operations. With a displacement of 44,000 tonnes, these vessels are among the largest support ships ever built in India. Their design emphasizes not only payload capacity but also speed, efficiency, and survivability, ensuring seamless integration with India's blue-water navy.  

Equipped with advanced replenishment systems, the FSS will enable simultaneous refueling, provisioning, and transfer of supplies to multiple ships, even in challenging sea conditions. The ships will also feature state-of-the-art navigation and communication systems, ensuring enhanced operational safety and efficiency.  

Strengthening Infrastructure at HSL  

To accommodate this ambitious project, HSL has invested heavily in upgrading its infrastructure. The installation of a new Goliath crane—capable of lifting heavy ship components—will significantly improve construction efficiency. Slipway facilities are also being enhanced to handle the unique requirements of building such large vessels.  

These upgrades will not only support the FSS project but also position HSL as a key player in India's shipbuilding sector for future military and commercial endeavors.  

Boost to Local Industry and Employment  

The Fleet Support Ship program is more than just a boost to India’s naval capabilities; it is a cornerstone of the nation’s "Make in India" and "Aatmanirbhar Bharat" initiatives. With a focus on indigenous design and production, the project is expected to generate thousands of jobs and stimulate economic growth in the Visakhapatnam region.  

Micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) stand to benefit significantly as suppliers of specialized components and systems for the ships. This symbiotic relationship between large-scale shipbuilding and smaller industries is a testament to the broader economic vision driving India’s defence manufacturing policies.  

Strategic Implications for the Indian Navy  

The addition of Fleet Support Ships will extend the operational reach of the Indian Navy, a critical component of maintaining maritime dominance in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). These ships will enable sustained deployments for naval assets, enhancing their capability to respond swiftly to threats, provide humanitarian aid, and secure vital sea lanes.  

By ensuring logistical self-sufficiency at sea, the FSS aligns with India’s strategic doctrine of enhancing maritime security and projecting influence across the IOR.  

A Path to Self-Reliance  

The keel-laying ceremony at HSL symbolizes more than the start of a ship’s construction—it marks India’s growing confidence in its ability to meet the complex demands of modern naval warfare through indigenous capabilities. As these ships take shape, they will stand as a testament to India’s ambition to become a global leader in defence manufacturing.  

With cutting-edge technology, enhanced infrastructure, and a strong focus on local industry participation, the Fleet Support Ship project represents a new chapter in India’s maritime history, one that emphasizes self-reliance and strategic foresight.