Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated key maritime infrastructure projects at Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL) in Visakhapatnam on October 6, 2026. This event marks a pivotal moment for advancing India’s naval capabilities and fostering self-reliance. The ceremony included the launch of the first Fleet Support Ship (FSS-1), named ‘Surya’, and the laying of the keel for the fifth Fleet Support Ship (FSS-5). Additionally, the ceremony featured the inauguration of upgraded facilities, including a new slipway and crane.

During his address, Singh emphasised that these developments highlight India’s growing maritime strength. He stated, “Today we are inaugurating the new Slipway and Gola-Bar crane, laying the keel of a new Fleet Support Ship, and also launching Fleet Support Ship-1, which has been named ‘Surya’. The simultaneous achievements on this occasion enhance their significance.” His remarks underscored the strategic nature of modernising shipbuilding infrastructure for the nation’s maritime security.

He further declared that the keel laying embodies national resolve and that the new slipway signifies enhanced capacity. Singh remarked, “At HSL, we are not only constructing ships but also fortifying the foundation of India’s future maritime power.” The Defence Minister’s words were intended to underline the importance of investing in shipbuilding as a means of enhancing national security.

Reviving India’s Maritime Heritage

In his address, Singh drew attention to India’s historical maritime prowess, noting the current focus on modernising and indigenising naval capabilities. He stated that the nation is reviving an ancient legacy of oceanic strength, rather than commencing a new path. “When we speak today of making India a major maritime power, we are not beginning any new chapter,” he emphasised, recalling the historical significance of India’s previous maritime achievements.

The Defence Minister praised HSL for its long-standing contributions to national defence, describing it as the “custodian of India’s national maritime capability.” He hailed the shipyard’s critical role over the past eight decades in fulfilling the country’s maritime defence needs and highlighted the financial and operational improvements following its integration under the Ministry of Defence.

Singh noted that HSL’s status as a Miniratna Category-I entity by 2025 reflects its transformation and the significant efforts made over recent years. He reiterated the shipyard’s critical role as a national asset dedicated to serving strategic and defence needs.

Collaboration for Maritime Strength

Highlighting that self-reliance in naval capabilities requires coordinated efforts, the Defence Minister called for collaboration among various stakeholders, including academia and defence startups. He stated, “An integrated national maritime ecosystem is essential.” Singh expressed expectations that the Navy, HSL, DRDO, academic institutions, industry, MSMEs, and startups would work as a cohesive team to bolster India’s maritime strength.

Moreover, Singh commended the Indian Navy’s role in ensuring stability and security within the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). He acknowledged the Navy’s accomplishments as a First Responder and Preferred Security Partner across various operations. “The Indian Navy has demonstrated its readiness in every situation, be it humanitarian assistance, anti-piracy measures, or maritime security,” he said.

Regarding the operational significance of the newly launched Fleet Support Ship, Singh remarked on its potential to enhance the Navy’s reach and effectiveness. The Defence Minister’s address reinforced the notion that these initiatives serve not only current needs but also set the stage for future maritime security in India.

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