The Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL) has launched work on the prestigious Diving Support Vessels (DSV) project which was awarded to it by the Indian Navy to augment its submarine support operations.

₹2,050-crore project

According to the officials, construction of two DSVs will cost ₹2,050 crore, improving the order book position of the HSL, a premier shipbuilding yard under the Union Ministry of Defence set up in 1941.

“We will deliver the first DSV in three years from date of construction and the second one a year later. The vessels will be used for rescue and relief, submarine repair, recovery, testing and salvage operations,” HSL Chairman and Managing Director Rear Admiral L.V. Sarat Babu told The Hindu.

The shipyard has completed the price negotiations with the Indian Navy for the project related to construction for four 50 tonne bollard pull tugs.

The Navy is all set to award the contract for the ₹250-crore project shortly, it is learnt.

Fleet Support Vessels

For the construction of five Fleet Support Ships (FSS) costing ₹9,500 crore, the HSL has started the process for issuing Request for Proposal (RFP). It has issued the ‘Expression of Interest’ (EoI) proposals from global consultants as design collaborator. The bids submission will start in March.

The construction of FSS is expected to start during early next year after signing the contract. The refit work for Russia-made INS Sindhuvir, an EKM class submarine costing₹500 crore will also be completed by the year-end.

“The HSL has been earning net and operational profits for three consecutive years and for fourth year in a row, the yard is poised to continue its success story during 2018-19 fiscal year,” Rear Admiral Sarat Babu said.