Defense Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday launched the Fleet Support Ship-1 (FSS-1) at Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL) in Visakhapatnam. Christened ‘Surya’, the vessel entered the waters of the Bay of Bengal, marking an important step towards strengthening the Navy’s operational reach and endurance, The Hitavada reported.
In addition to launching the first fleet support ship, Singh also laid the keel of the fifth fleet support ship and inaugurated the upgraded Slipway-4 and a 300-tonne Goliath Crane at HSL, according to The Hitavada.
“The launch of FSS-1 is a symbol of achievement, keel laying of FSS-5 a symbol of resolve and the new Slipway is a symbol of our growing capability,” Singh said, addressing a meeting in the port city, The Hitavada reported.
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, The Hitavada stated.
Fleet Support Ships provide this essential capability through at-sea replenishment and sustained support to naval operations, he added, as reported by The Hitavada.
These developments are strategically important for the states of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, as Visakhapatnam serves as a crucial naval base on the eastern coast. The new ships and infrastructure will bolster regional security and could enhance local employment opportunities in the defense sector.