The Indian  Navy marked three significant milestones in its indigenous auxiliary vessel construction programme on 26 October 2026 at Suryadipta Projects Pvt Ltd, Thane, announced PIB.

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The occasion saw the launch of the first Sullage Barge, Yard 142, alongside the keel laying of the third Sullage Barge, Yard 144, and the first Bottom Opening Dumb Barge, Yard 148.

The launching and keel laying ceremonies were attended by Rear Admiral Kapil Mehta, Assistant Controller of Warship Production and Acquisition (ACWP&A), who served as the Chief Guest.

These developments form part of separate contracts awarded to Suryadipta Projects Pvt Ltd, an MSME shipyard based in Thane. The contract for four 300-ton Sullage Barges was concluded in November 2024, while the contract for three Bottom Opening Dumb Barges was signed in January 2026.

Yard 142 represents the first Sullage Barge to be launched under the program, while Yard 144 marks progress on the third vessel of the class. The keel laying of Yard 148 also signals the commencement of construction of the first Bottom Opening Dumb Barge under the contract.

The vessels have been indigenously designed and constructed by the shipyard in collaboration with an Indian ship design firm and the Indian Register of Shipping (IRS). The project highlights the growing contribution of domestic industry, including MSME shipyards, to India’s naval shipbuilding ecosystem.

Once delivered, the barges will support the operation of Indian Navy platforms and assist in meeting MARPOL environmental compliance requirements relating to the handling and disposal of waste generated by ships.

The program also reinforces the Government of India’s commitment to indigenous  defence manufacturing and self-reliance. These barges are described as proud flag bearers of the “Make in India” and “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” initiatives, demonstrating continued progress in strengthening domestic maritime capabilities.