Indian Navy Launches LSAM 20 Barge

May 1, 2024

The Indian Navy has launched the sixth barge of the LSAM 16 (Yard 130) series, named ‘Ammunition Cum Torpedo Cum Missile Barge, LSAM 20 (Yard 130),’ built by a private firm, Suryadipta Projects Pvt Ltd, in Thane, Maharashtra. The launch ceremony took place recently, at the launch site of Suryadipta Projects Pvt Ltd and was presided over by Madhusudan Bhui, INAS, GM NAD (Karanja).

Purpose and Significance of ACTCM Barges

The barge will help the Indian Navy facilitate the transportation of articles and ammunition to ships, both alongside jetties and at outer harbors.
The availability of these barges will provide impetus to the Indian Navy’s operational commitments by enabling efficient embarkation and disembarkation of goods and ammunition.
The contract for building 11 ACTCM barges was signed between the Ministry of Defence and Suryadipta Projects Pvt Ltd on March 5, 2021.

Indigenous Design and Construction

The barges are indigenously designed and built under relevant Naval Rules and Regulations of the Indian Register of Shipping. During the design stage, model testing of the barge was conducted at the Naval Science and Technological Laboratory in Visakhapatnam. The barges are considered proud flag bearers of the ‘Make in India’ initiative of the Government of India, promoting indigenous manufacturing capabilities.

About LSAM

LSAM stands for “Landing Ship Ammunition,” indicating the barge’s role in transporting ammunition for the Indian Navy.
The Indian Navy has been focusing on enhancing its operational capabilities and logistics support through the acquisition of various types of vessels, including barges, to support its fleet.
Private sector participation in defense manufacturing has been encouraged under the ‘Make in India’ initiative, aiming to reduce dependency on imports and strengthen the domestic defense industry.
The launch of the sixth LSAM 20 barge marks a significant milestone in the ongoing 11 ACTCM Barge Project, showcasing the collaborative efforts between the Indian Navy and private sector shipyards.

The indigenously designed and constructed barges will play a crucial role in supporting the Navy’s operational commitments and logistics needs, further strengthening India’s maritime capabilities and self-reliance in defense manufacturing.

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