Defence Minister Rajnath Singh today launched the first indigenously-built Fleet Support Ship (FSS-1), INS Surya, at Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL), Visakhapatnam.   

The Defence Minister also laid the keel of the fifth Fleet Support Ship (FSS-5) and inaugurated the upgraded Slipway-4 and 300-tonne Goliath Crane at the HSL facility. 

“The launch of FSS-1 is a symbol of achievement, keel laying of FSS-5 is a symbol of resolve and the new Slipway is a symbol of our growing capability,” Singh said while addressing a gathering during the event. 

"HSL is strengthening not only its shipbuilding capacity but also the foundation of India’s maritime power," the Defence Minister stated.

Highlighting the Fleet Support Ship programme, Singh said the vessels would strengthen Indian Navy’s reach, endurance and operational effectiveness in the Indian Ocean Region. 

He noted that a Navy operating for extended periods in distant maritime areas requires not only warships, but also logistics, maintenance, sustained support and operational endurance.

"Fleet Support Ships provide this essential capability through at-sea replenishment and sustained support to naval operations," he said.

Designed and built indigenously by HSL, the Fleet Support Ships will feature enhanced cargo and fluid capacity, onboard first-line maintenance workshops, a helicopter deck for Multi-Role Helicopter operations and self-defence systems, the Defence Ministry said. 

Emphasising Visakhapatnam’s strategic importance, Singh said that the presence of the Eastern Naval Command, Naval Dockyard, HSL and Visakhapatnam Port provides the city with the foundation of an "integrated maritime ecosystem". 

He called for Visakhapatnam to be developed as a major Maritime Industrial Hub by bringing together naval expertise, shipbuilding capability, engineering talent, port infrastructure and skilled manpower. 

The Defence Minister also stressed the need for an integrated national maritime ecosystem involving the Indian Navy, HSL, DRDO, academia, industry, MSMEs and startups. 

India’s maritime strength cannot be built by the Navy or shipyards alone, he said while calling for greater integration among all stakeholders.

“Our goal should be simple and clear- Design better. Build faster. Deliver on time. Operate efficiently and do Maintenance effectively,” Rajnath Singh said, while adding that India’s objective should go beyond self-reliance to global competitiveness. 

Indian shipyards should aspire to serve friendly nations and international markets and develop a global presence in maritime technology, ship repair and maintenance services and engineering expertise, he added.

The events were attended by Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, and other senior officials from the Indian Navy, the Defence Ministry, HSL and from the state government.