Indian Navy To Acquire 5 Fleet Support Ships Worth A Whopping 19,000 Crore

The Indian Ministry of Defense inked an important contract on Thursday with the renowned Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL) in the city of Visakhapatnam for acquiring 5 Fleet Support Vessels for the nation’s Navy at a whopping 19,000 crore.

Video Credits: ANI News (YouTube) 

The ministry released a statement mentioning that this move will be a boost for the naval force of India, focussing on achieving the aim of self-reliance in the defence sector in congruence with the Atmanirbhar Bharat or Make In India Initiatives of the government.

Per reports, the vessels weighing 44,000 tonnes will be designed and constructed in India by HSL. The acquisition of these ships had already been approved by the Cabinet Committee on Security in a meeting held on 16th August this year.

These ships will enhance the strength and mobility of the Indian Naval fleet, thereby increasing its operational capabilities.

They will be used for supplying naval ships with provisions like fuel, water and ammunition, allowing the ships of the Indian Navy to operate in the seas for longer periods without the need to return to the ports. They can also be employed to evacuate people during natural disasters.

This is a significant milestone for India as these ships will be the first to be constructed entirely in India, and that too, by a native shipyard. This endeavour will also engage and encourage active participation from other associated industries like the MSMEs.

It is estimated that the project will create vast employment opportunities for millions of people over 16.88 million days spanning 8 years.

References: navalnews, livemint

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Source: Maritime Shipping News