Indian Navy Boosts Operational Capabilities with Launch of ‘ACTCM Barge LSAM 18’

Thane: In a significant milestone for indigenous naval capabilities, the launch of the ‘Ammunition Cum Torpedo Cum Missile Barge, LSAM 18’, the fourth barge of the 11-part ACTCM Barge Project, took place on February 28, 2024. This crucial event was hosted by the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Shipyard, M/s Suryadipta Projects Pvt Ltd, Thane, marking another stride in bolstering the Indian Navy’s operational readiness.

The launching ceremony, presided over by Cmde Shirish Dube of the Directorate of Ship Production, witnessed the culmination of collaborative efforts between the Ministry of Defence (MoD) and M/s Suryadipta Projects Pvt Ltd. The contract for constructing the 11 ACTCM Barges was inked on March 5, 2021, emphasizing the commitment to fortifying the Navy’s capabilities.

These indigenously designed and constructed barges adhere to the stringent Naval Rules and Regulations of the Indian Register of Shipping. Model testing during the design stage was conducted at the Naval Science and Technological Laboratory in Visakhapatnam, ensuring compliance with the highest standards of naval engineering.

The ACTCM Barges play a crucial role in supporting the Indian Navy’s operational commitments. They facilitate the transportation, embarkation, and disembarkation of articles and ammunition to Indian Navy ships, both alongside jetties and at outer harbors. This advancement aligns with the ‘Make in India’ initiative of the Government of India, showcasing the nation’s prowess in manufacturing critical naval assets domestically.

The launch of ‘ACTCM Barge LSAM 18’ not only strengthens the Indian Navy’s operational capabilities but also underscores the nation’s dedication to self-reliance and innovation in naval technology. As part of ongoing initiatives, such projects contribute significantly to enhancing indigenous defense manufacturing, reducing dependence on external sources, and fostering self-sufficiency in naval capabilities.