Fri Nov 15 03:30:59 UTC 2024: ## Hindustan Shipyard Lays Keel for First Fleet Support Ship, Boosting India’s Naval Capabilities
**Visakhapatnam, November 15, 2024:** Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL) achieved a major milestone on Thursday with the keel laying ceremony of the first Fleet Support Ship. The ceremony was conducted by Vice Admiral B Sivakumar, Controller Warship Production & Acquisition, Indian Navy, at HSL’s building dock.
This groundbreaking project signifies HSL’s growing capability to design and build modern warships, further solidifying the Indian Navy’s trust in the shipyard. The 44,000-ton Fleet Support Ship is being constructed with an impressive 80% indigenous content, showcasing India’s commitment to self-reliance in defense under the “Atmanirbhar Bharat” initiative.
The ship will play a critical role in replenishing the fleet at sea with fuel, water, ammunition, and stores, thereby significantly extending the Navy’s operational capabilities and enhancing its strategic reach. This ambitious project is a dream come true for HSL, which was transferred to the Ministry of Defence in 2010.
The project is expected to generate employment for nearly 169 lakh man-days over eight years, providing valuable opportunities for skilled workers at the shipyard. Additionally, it will encourage active participation from associated industries, including approximately 550 MSMEs.
First Piper 