Why in News?
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh launched Surya, the first Fleet Support Ship (FSS-1), laid the keel of the fifth Fleet Support Ship (FSS-5), and inaugurated the upgraded Slipway-4 and a 300-tonne Goliath Crane at Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL), Visakhapatnam, on October 6, 2026.
About Fleet Support Ships
Fleet Support Ships are naval auxiliary vessels designed to provide logistical support to warships during operations at sea. They help replenish essential supplies, enabling naval vessels to remain deployed for longer periods without returning to port.
The Fleet Support Ships are being designed and built indigenously by Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL). Their major features include enhanced cargo and fluid-carrying capacity, onboard workshops for first-line maintenance, a helicopter deck for Multi-Role Helicopter operations, and self-defence systems.
The launch of FSS-1 Surya and the commencement of construction of FSS-5 reflect efforts to strengthen India’s indigenous warship-building capabilities and improve the Indian Navy’s logistical support and operational endurance.
CLICK HERE: UPSC PRELIMS & MAINS CURRENT AFFAIRS BASED WEEKLY TEST (ENG & HINDI)
CLICK HERE FOR GS TIMES PRAHAR UPSC GS MAINS TEST SERIES
CLICK HERE: DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS QUIZ (FOR ALL EXAMINATIONS)
![](https://www.gstimes.in/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/WEEKLY-TEST-RECT.jpg")
