Larsen & Toubro to construct two fleet support ships for Indian Navy

Larsen & Toubro’s Precision Engineering Systems business vertical has secured a prestigious contract valued between Rs 1,000 to 2,500 crores from M/s Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL). This contract involves the construction of two Fleet Support Ships (FSS) for the Indian Navy, which signed an agreement with HSL in August 2023 for the design and construction of five FSS vessels.

Fleet Support Ships are vital components of naval operations, designed to provide logistics and material support to naval task forces at sea. These ships are among the largest in the Indian Naval Fleet, measuring over 220 meters in length with a displacement of approximately 45,000 tons. Their role is crucial in maintaining the operational readiness of the Navy’s maritime force during extended deployments.

Aligned with the Government of India‘s “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” (Self-Reliant India) initiative, these vessels represent the first of their kind to be built entirely in domestic shipyards. L&T and HSL will collaboratively construct these ships to meet stringent delivery schedules. This partnership not only underscores the commitment to enhancing the Indian Navy’s capabilities but also promotes economic activity and technological advancement within India’s maritime sector.

Since receiving its first defense shipbuilding order in March 2010, L&T has designed, constructed, and delivered over 70 defense vessels, demonstrating significant prowess in the ‘Make in India’ initiative. Notably, most of these vessels have been delivered either ahead of or on schedule, highlighting L&T’s efficiency and technological expertise in shipbuilding. The construction of the two FSS will take place at L&T’s state-of-the-art greenfield shipyard in Kattupalli, near Chennai, which is recognized as one of India’s most modern shipyards.

The contract for the Fleet Support Ships not only strengthens Larsen & Toubro’s position as a key player in India’s defense shipbuilding industry but also plays a critical role in the strategic strengthening of the Indian Navy’s logistical capabilities. This project is a testament to L&T’s advanced engineering and project management capabilities, which are expected to drive further advancements in India’s defense manufacturing sector.

The ongoing collaboration between L&T and HSL through projects like the FSS construction is set to significantly boost India’s self-reliance in defense technology and infrastructure, aligning with broader national objectives to enhance the naval fleet’s capacity and reach in the coming years. This initiative not only supports the military’s operational needs but also contributes to the growth and technological advancement of India’s shipbuilding industry, marking a pivotal development in the country’s defense sector.