The Indian Navy is set to strengthen its logistics and operational capabilities with the induction of four special fuel supply vessels, which will be built domestically. Each vessel will have a capacity of 500 tonnes and will be capable of directly refueling large warships and submarines, enhancing naval preparedness and efficiency.
Contract Awarded to Thane-Based Shipyard
According to the Ministry of Defence, the contract for building these automated fuel supply vessels has been awarded to Softech Shipyard Limited, a private shipbuilding firm based in Thane, Maharashtra.
These modern vessels will enable direct refueling of warships and submarines stationed at ports or at anchorage. This will eliminate the need for large naval platforms to move separately for refueling, saving time and improving operational turnaround.
Strengthening ‘Make in India’ and Defence Manufacturing
The Defence Ministry stated that the vessels will be fully manufactured in India, reinforcing the government’s ‘Make in India’ and ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiatives.
The project is expected to provide a boost to India’s shipbuilding sector and create opportunities for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Authorities have assured that strict safety and quality standards will be followed during construction to ensure reliability and operational safety.
Navy Plans Major Inductions by 2026
Recently, Navy Chief Dinesh Kumar Tripathi announced that around 15 naval vessels are planned to be inducted in 2026. The Indian Navy has set an ambitious target of becoming a 200-plus ship force by 2035.
Currently, nearly 50 naval vessels are under construction in Indian shipyards. The long-term goal is to achieve complete self-reliance in naval power by 2047.
INS Anjadip Enhances Anti-Submarine Capability
The Navy recently inducted INS Anjadip, an indigenous warship designed for shallow water anti-submarine warfare operations. Known as a ‘Dolphin Hunter’, the vessel is equipped to detect, track, and neutralize enemy submarines.
INS Anjadip features advanced indigenous anti-submarine weapons and sensor systems, including the hull-mounted sonar ‘Abhay’, lightweight torpedoes, and anti-submarine rockets.
Boost to Maritime Logistics and Combat Efficiency
With the addition of these fuel supply vessels and new warships, the Indian Navy continues to modernize its fleet and strengthen maritime logistics. The move is expected to significantly enhance operational readiness, fleet sustainability, and India’s strategic capabilities in the Indian Ocean region.
