Indian Navy Boosts Operational Capabilities with Launch of Missile Cum Ammunition Barge

In a significant stride towards enhancing its operational capabilities, the Indian Navy marked a pivotal moment with the launch of the ‘Missile Cum Ammunition Barge, LSAM 10 (Yard 78)’, the fourth in a series of eight such barges built by the MSME Shipyard, M/s SECON Engineering Projects Pvt Ltd (SEPPL), Visakhapatnam. The ceremony took place at Guttenadeevi, East Godavari, Andhra Pradesh, the launch site of M/s SEPPL, and was presided over by Cmde Shanmugam Sabesan, CRO (East). The contract for constructing these eight Barges was inked between the Ministry of Defence (MoD) and M/s SECON Engineering Projects Pvt Ltd on February 19, 2021. The introduction of these Barges is expected to significantly enhance the Indian Navy's operational commitments, enabling efficient transportation, embarkation, and disembarkation of articles and ammunition for IN Ships, both at jetties and outer harbours. These indigenously designed and constructed Barges adhere to the relevant Naval Rules and Regulations of the Indian Register of Shipping (IRS). Prior to their construction, meticulous model testing of the Barge during the design stage was conducted at the Naval Science and Technological Laboratory (NSTL) in Visakhapatnam. The launch of these Barges stands as a testament to India’s 'Make in India' initiative, showcasing the nation's self-reliance and technological prowess. The availability of these Barges aligns with the Indian Navy's strategy to bolster its logistical and operational capabilities, further fortifying its readiness to meet present and future challenges. The successful launch signifies a substantial step towards reinforcing India’s maritime strength and self-sufficiency in naval infrastructure.