The Indian Navy recently welcomed its fifth Missile-Cum-Ammunition Barge, LSAM 13, Yard 81, as part of a significant project undertaken by MSME Shipyard, SECON Engineering Projects Pvt Ltd (SEPPL), Visakhapatnam.
The launch ceremony took place on June 10, overseen by Commodore Manish Vig, General Manager (QA), ND(Mbi).
This project, aimed at enhancing the Navy's operational capabilities, is a result of a contract signed between the Ministry of Defence and M/s SECON Engineering Projects Pvt Ltd, Visakhapatnam, in February 2021.
These barges play a crucial role in facilitating the transportation, embarkation, and disembarkation of articles and ammunition to Indian Navy ships, both at jetties and outer harbours.
Built under the strict regulations of the Indian Register of Shipping (IRS), these indigenously designed barges are a testament to India's maritime prowess and the Make in India initiative. Model testing of the barges was conducted at the Naval Science and Technological Laboratory (NSTL), Visakhapatnam, ensuring their adherence to naval standards.
In a recent demonstration of its operational readiness, the Indian Navy Ship (INS) responded promptly to a distress call from the fishing vessel INFAN DHAS, which had encountered engine failure. The technical team aboard the INS swiftly rectified the defect, enabling the fishing vessel to resume its operations.
With the addition of LSAM 13 and other similar barges, the Indian Navy strengthens its maritime capabilities and underscores its commitment to safeguarding India's maritime interests. These vessels not only enhance operational efficiency but also reflect India's self-reliance in naval infrastructure and technology.
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