The Indian Navy marked a significant milestone with the delivery of the ‘Ammunition Cum Torpedo Cum Missile Barge, LSAM 19’, the fifth barge of the 11 x ACTCM Barge Project, on March 4th, 2024.
The barge, constructed by MSME Shipyard, M/s Suryadipta Projects Pvt Ltd, Thane, was handed over to the Indian Navy at the Naval Dockyard, Mumbai, for Naval Armament Depot (Karanja). The Induction Ceremony was graced by Capt Ashutosh HQWNC/ACRO.
The contract for the construction of 11 X ACTCM Barges was inked between the Ministry of Defence and M/s Suryadipta Projects Pvt Ltd, Thane, on March 5th, 2021.
The induction of these barges signifies a significant boost to the operational capabilities of the Indian Navy.
They will play a pivotal role in facilitating the transportation, embarkation, and disembarkation of articles and ammunition to Indian Navy ships, both alongside jetties and at outer harbors.
These indigenous barges have been meticulously designed and constructed in compliance with the relevant Naval Rules and Regulations of the Indian Register of Shipping.
During the design phase, model testing of the barge was conducted at the Naval Science and Technological Laboratory, Visakhapatnam. This underscores the commitment to quality and adherence to stringent standards in naval construction.
Furthermore, these barges represent a proud testament to the Make in India initiative of the Government of India (GoI), showcasing the nation’s capabilities in indigenous shipbuilding.
The project exemplifies the collaborative efforts between the government and the private sector in bolstering India’s maritime infrastructure and enhancing its naval capabilities.
The delivery of the LSAM 19 barge not only strengthens the Indian Navy’s logistical capabilities but also underscores its commitment to self-reliance and indigenization in defense manufacturing.
It sets the stage for future collaborations and advancements in naval technology, further solidifying India’s position as a key player in the global maritime domain.