INDIAN ARMED FORCES CHIEFS ON OUR RELENTLESS AND FOCUSED PUBLISHING EFFORTS

The insightful articles, inspiring narrations and analytical perspectives presented by the Editorial Team, establish an alluring connect with the reader. My compliments and best wishes to SP Guide Publications.

— General Upendra Dwivedi, Indian Army Chief

"Over the past 60 years, the growth of SP Guide Publications has mirrored the rising stature of Indian Navy. Its well-researched and informative magazines on Defence and Aerospace sector have served to shape an educated opinion of our military personnel, policy makers and the public alike. I wish SP's Publication team continued success, fair winds and following seas in all future endeavour!"

— Admiral Dinesh Kumar Tripathi, Indian Navy Chief

Since, its inception in 1964, SP Guide Publications has consistently demonstrated commitment to high-quality journalism in the aerospace and defence sectors, earning a well-deserved reputation as Asia's largest media house in this domain. I wish SP Guide Publications continued success in its pursuit of excellence.

— Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh, Indian Air Force Chief
       

Keel Laying of Third Fleet Support Ship for Indian Navy

July 9, 2025 Photo(s): By PIB

'Keel Laying' ceremony of third Fleet Support Ships (FSS) was held at L&T Shipyard, Kattupalli on July 9, 2025, in the presence of Vice Admiral Rajaram Swaminathan, Controller Warship Production & Acquisition and senior officials from the Indian Navy, HSL and L&T.

Indian Navy had signed a contract with HSL for acquisition of Five Fleet Support Ships (FSS) in August 2023, with deliveries commencing mid-2027.

Showcasing the strength of public-private partnership, HSL has sub-contracted construction of two ships to L&T Shipyard, Kattupalli to effectively utilise the country's shipbuilding capacity and meet stringent timelines for delivery.

On induction, the FSS will bolster the 'Blue Water' capabilities of the Indian Navy through replenishment of Fleet ships at sea. These ships, with a displacement of more than 40,000 tonnes will carry fuel, water, ammunition and stores that enable prolonged and sustained operations of the fleet at sea, thus enhancing its reach and mobility.

In their secondary role, the ships will be equipped for Humanitarian Aid and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations for evacuation of personnel and expeditious delivery of relief material during natural calamities.

The indigenously designed and built warship is equipped with equipment sourced through Indian OEMs.

This prestigious project will significantly boost the Indian Shipbuilding Industry and is a true champion of GoI initiatives such as Aatmanirbhar Bharat, Make in India and Make for the World.

Keel Laying ceremony of Indian Navy's 3rd Fleet Support Ship (FSS) was held on July 9, 2025, in presence of Vice Admiral Rajaram Swaminathan, Controller Warship Production & Acquisition at L&T Shipyard, Kattupalli.