FSS-5 keel laid and Augmented Slipway inaugurated; over 82% indigenous content underscores India’s shipbuilding capabilities
Visakhapatnam, October 6, 2026: FSS-1, the first of the Fleet Support Ships being constructed by Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL), Visakhapatnam, was launched on October 6, 2026, marking a significant milestone in the Indian Navy’s efforts to strengthen its operational logistics and blue-water capabilities.
In keeping with established naval traditions, Smt Laila Swaminathan, President, Navy Welfare & Wellness Association (NWWA), launched the ship in the presence of the Chief Guest, Hon’ble Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh.
The ceremony also marked the keel laying of FSS-5, the fifth ship in the Fleet Support Ship series. On the occasion, the Defence Minister also inaugurated the Augmented Slipway, a key infrastructure upgrade at HSL aimed at strengthening the shipyard’s shipbuilding capabilities.
Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, Chief of the Naval Staff, along with senior officials from the Indian Navy, Ministry of Defence and HSL, Visakhapatnam, attended the ceremony.
Over 82% indigenous content
The Fleet Support Ships have been indigenously designed and built by HSL, Visakhapatnam, with more than 82 per cent indigenous content. The project reflects extensive cooperation among the Indian Navy, shipyard, defence industry and Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
Once inducted into the Indian Navy, the Fleet Support Ships will enhance its ‘Blue Water’ capabilities by enabling replenishment of fleet ships at sea. Their capability to provide logistical support at sea is expected to strengthen the operational endurance of naval formations and support sustained operations over extended distances.
The ships will significantly bolster operational logistics, thereby enhancing the Fleet’s strategic reach and mobility.
Multi-role capability for HADR and evacuation operations
In addition to their primary logistics role, the Fleet Support Ships will have important secondary capabilities. They will be capable of undertaking Humanitarian Aid and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations as well as Non-Combatant Evacuation Operations (NEO).
These capabilities will enable the ships to support the expeditious delivery of relief material and evacuation of personnel during humanitarian emergencies and other contingencies.
The Fleet Support Ship project is also expected to provide a major boost to India’s domestic shipbuilding industry, strengthening indigenous design, manufacturing and supply-chain capabilities.
The project is being seen as a key example of the Government of India’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India initiatives, with its high indigenous content and collaboration between the Navy, HSL, defence industries and MSMEs.