Raksha Mantri launches first indigenous Fleet Support Ship ‘ Surya’ at Hindustan Shipyard Ltd in Visakhapatnam

Key Highlights:

• Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh launched the first indigenous Fleet Support Ship (FSS-1), 'Surya', at Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL), Visakhapatnam on October 06, 2026.
• He also laid the keel for the fifth Fleet Support Ship (FSS-5) and inaugurated upgraded infrastructure at HSL.
• The new infrastructure includes an upgraded Slipway-4 capable of building ships up to 45,000 DWT and a 300-tonne Goliath Crane.
• FSS are designed to enhance the Navy's reach, endurance, and operational effectiveness in the Indian Ocean Region.
• HSL achieved Miniratna Category-I status in 2025, reflecting its transformation and contribution to maritime defence.

Detailed Insights:

• The launch of FSS-1 and keel laying for FSS-5 signify India's progress in indigenous maritime capability and self-reliance.
• Fleet Support Ships provide crucial logistics, maintenance, and at-sea replenishment, enabling naval operations for extended periods.
• FSS-1 'Surya' features enhanced cargo capacity, maintenance workshops, a helicopter deck, and self-defence systems.
• The Goliath Crane, designed and manufactured under Make in India, facilitates faster and more precise handling for modern block construction.
• The upgrades at HSL aim to strengthen its capacity to build larger and more complex ships, supporting India's shipbuilding programs.
• The government emphasizes developing Visakhapatnam as a major Maritime Industrial Hub, integrating naval expertise, shipbuilding, and industrial ecosystems.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Fleet Support Ship (FSS): Naval vessels providing logistics, fuel, ammunition, and supplies to warships at sea, extending their operational endurance.
• Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL): A public sector shipyard under the Ministry of Defence, involved in shipbuilding, ship repairs, and submarine construction.
• Miniratna Category-I: A status granted to profitable public sector enterprises in India, giving them greater financial and operational autonomy.
• Make in India: A government initiative to encourage companies to manufacture their products in India and incentivize investment into the sector.
• Deadweight Tonnage (DWT): A measure of a ship's carrying capacity, including cargo, fuel, fresh water, ballast water, provisions, and crew.