Sci-TechGS-III· 1 min read
Navy's Indigenous Fleet Support Ship 'Surya' Launched
Why in news?
Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh launched the first indigenously built Fleet Support Ship (FSS) named 'Surya' and laid the keel for the fifth vessel of the series at Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL) in Visakhapatnam.
Key points
- This marks a significant step towards self-reliance in naval shipbuilding.
- The FSS 'Surya' is designed to refuel and resupply warships at sea.
- It has 82% indigenous content and utilizes integrated modular construction.
- HSL's modernized slipway and Goliath crane will enhance its shipbuilding capacity.
Background & context
Fleet Support Ships (FSS) are crucial for maintaining naval presence at sea by enabling warships to operate for extended periods without returning to port for refueling and resupply. India has previously operated ships like INS Shakti, INS Jyoti, INS Deepak, and INS Aditya.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The 'Surya' is the first indigenously built Fleet Support Ship for the Indian Navy.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper III: Science and Technology, Indigenous defence production, Economy (Make in India)