Indian Navy launches ‘Make in India’ ‘Missile Cum Ammunition Barge project
On October 10, 2024, the Indian Navy launched the sixth ‘Missile Cum Ammunition Barge’ (LSAM 12), part of the 8-barge project built by M/s SECON Engineering Projects Pvt Ltd (SEPPL) in Visakhapatnam. The launch took place at M/s Vinayaga Marine Petro Ltd in Mira Bhayandar, Maharashtra, with Cmde MV Raj Krishna presiding over the ceremony.
The contract for building these barges was signed on February 19, 2021, between the Ministry of Defence and SEPPL. These indigenously designed barges will enhance the Navy’s operational capabilities by transporting ammunition and essential articles to naval platforms, both docked at jetties and at outer harbors.
Designed under the Indian Register of Shipping’s naval rules, the barges underwent rigorous model testing at the Naval Science and Technological Laboratory in Visakhapatnam. This project proudly showcases India’s ‘Make in India’ initiative, further boosting the country’s self-reliance in defense manufacturing.
The launch marks another step toward strengthening India’s maritime logistics and defense infrastructure, ensuring greater operational readiness for the Navy. With these barges, the Navy will efficiently handle ammunition transport, reinforcing its ability to meet its strategic goals.
