Context
The Defence Minister is set to launch Fleet Support Ship-1 (FSS-1) at Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL), Visakhapatnam, marking a milestone in India’s indigenous shipbuilding programme.
Operational Role
- FSS-1 is the first of five Fleet Support Ships being constructed for the Indian Navy.
- FSS-1 is designed for at-sea replenishment, providing naval vessels with fuel, water, ammunition and supplies.
- It can transfer stores, victuals and personnel to ships during their deployment.
- The vessel will be capable of handling multirole helicopters.
- It can also support evacuation, humanitarian assistance and rapid delivery of relief supplies during natural disasters.
Key Features
| Parameter | Specification |
| Propulsion | Diesel propulsion with a single-shaft configuration and controllable-pitch propeller |
| Length | 200 m |
| Breadth | 25 m |
| Draft | 10 m |
| Displacement | 44,000 tonnes |
| Speed | 20 knots |
| Complement | Approximately 190 personnel |
| Cargo-hold structure | Double bottom and double hull |
The double-bottom and double-hull arrangement in the cargo-hold areas is intended to enhance the range and duration of naval combat missions.
FAQs
Q1. How many Fleet Support Ships are being constructed for the Indian Navy?
Answer: Five Fleet Support Ships, with FSS-1 as the first vessel of the series.
Q2. Which shipyard is developing the Fleet Support Ships?
Answer: Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL), Visakhapatnam, a state-owned shipbuilding company.
Q3. What is the displacement of FSS-1?
Answer: 44,000 tonnes.
Q4. What propulsion arrangement will FSS-1 use?
Answer: Diesel propulsion with a single-shaft configuration and a controllable-pitch propeller.
Q5. What is the specified speed of FSS-1?
Answer: 20 knots.
Q6. What is the personnel complement of FSS-1?
Answer: Approximately 190 personnel.
Q7. What are the principal dimensions of FSS-1?
Answer: 200 m in length, 25 m in breadth and 10 m in draft.
