New Delhi, Oct. 7 -- The Indian Navy's blue-water operational capability received a boost with the launch of the first of five Fleet Support Ships (FSS) being built indigenously by Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL), Visakhapatnam.

The first vessel, FSS-1, was launched in the presence of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, marking a significant milestone in the Navy's efforts to strengthen its at-sea replenishment and long-range operational logistics capabilities.

In keeping with naval traditions, Laila Swaminathan, President of the Navy Welfare and Wellness Association (NWWA), launched the ship. The ceremony also saw the keel laying of FSS-5, the fifth vessel in the series, and the inauguration of an augmented slipway at HSL.

Chief of the Nav...