Indian Navy Enhances Operational Capabilities with Launch of LSAM 20 Barge

New Delhi: The Indian Navy witnessed the launch of the ‘Ammunition Cum Torpedo Cum Missile Barge, LSAM 20 (Yard 130)’, marking the sixth barge of the 11 x ACTCM Barge Project. The barge, built by MSME Shipyard, M/s Suryadipta Projects Pvt Ltd, Thane, was launched on April 29, 2024, at M/s Suryadipta Project Pvt. Ltd., the designated launch site.

The launch ceremony was graced by Shri Madhusudan Bhui, INAS, GM NAD (Karanja), who presided over the auspicious occasion. The event signifies a significant milestone in the ongoing collaboration between the Ministry of Defence (MoD) and M/s Suryadipta Projects Pvt Ltd, Thane, aimed at enhancing the Indian Navy’s operational readiness.

The contract for constructing 11 x ACTCM Barges was inked between the MoD and M/s Suryadipta Projects Pvt Ltd, Thane, on March 5, 2021. These specialized barges play a crucial role in facilitating the transportation, embarkation, and disembarkation of articles and ammunition to Indian Navy ships, both alongside jetties and at outer harbours, thereby augmenting the Navy’s logistical capabilities.

Built indigenously, the LSAM 20 Barge adheres to the stringent Naval Rules and Regulations set forth by the Indian Register of Shipping. The design and construction process of these barges underwent rigorous testing and scrutiny, including model testing at the Naval Science and Technological Laboratory, Visakhapatnam, during the design phase.

Furthermore, these barges serve as proud embodiments of the ‘Make in India’ initiative championed by the Government of India (GoI), reflecting the nation’s commitment to self-reliance and indigenous manufacturing in the defence sector.

The launch of LSAM 20 Barge underscores the Indian Navy’s unwavering dedication to modernizing its fleet and infrastructure, ensuring enhanced operational efficiency and readiness in safeguarding the nation’s maritime interests.