Kolkata: To boost India’s maritime capabilities, the third 25-tonne Bollard Pull (BP) Tug, Ashva (Yard 337), was launched today by Commodore Ajay Yadav, Naval Officer-in-Charge (West Bengal), at Titagarh Rail Systems Limited (TRSL) in Kolkata. This vessel, a proud representation of the “Make in India” initiative, is part of a series of six tugs being built for the Indian Navy.
The contract for constructing and delivering these 25T BP tugs was awarded to TRSL, aligning with the Government of India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) mission. Ashva was built under the stringent classification rules of the Indian Register of Shipping (IRS), ensuring the highest standards of maritime construction.
These tugs will play a crucial role in bolstering the operational capabilities of the Indian Navy. They are designed to assist naval ships and submarines during berthing, un-berthing, turning, and maneuvering in confined waters. Additionally, the tugs are equipped to provide afloat firefighting assistance to vessels alongside or at anchorage and have the capacity to perform limited search and rescue operations.
The launch of Ashva marks another milestone in India’s drive toward self-reliance in defense manufacturing, showcasing the nation’s commitment to enhancing its indigenous shipbuilding capabilities. This project highlights the strategic importance of partnerships between the public and private sectors in strengthening the country’s maritime infrastructure.