Categories: Current AffairsDefence

Indian Navy Launches 11th ACTCM Barge LSAM 25

In a significant stride towards maritime self-reliance, the Indian Navy launched its 11th Ammunition Cum Torpedo Cum Missile (ACTCM) Barge, LSAM 25 (Yard 135), on September 8, 2025, at M/s Suryadipta Projects Pvt Ltd, Thane. This milestone reinforces India’s defence manufacturing capabilities under the Make in India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiatives.

The launch ceremony was graced by Rear Admiral Vishal Bishnoi, Assistant Chief of Materiel (Planning & Administration), who acknowledged the critical role of indigenous shipbuilding in bolstering operational logistics of the Indian Navy.

Background and Contract Details

The Indian Navy had awarded the contract for 11 ACTCM Barges to M/s Suryadipta Projects Pvt Ltd, a Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise (MSME) shipyard, on March 5, 2021. This contract symbolizes the increasing involvement of domestic shipyards in national defence infrastructure.

These barges are indigenously designed in collaboration with a domestic ship design firm and the Indian Register of Shipping (IRS). Model testing for seaworthiness was conducted at the Naval Science and Technological Laboratory (NSTL), Visakhapatnam.

Specifications and Role

The ACTCM Barges are specially built for the transport and handling of critical naval armament, including,

Ammunition
Torpedoes
Missiles

Their deployment plays a vital role in supporting logistics operations at naval dockyards and alongside warships, enhancing mission readiness and fleet efficiency.

The successful launch and deployment of 10 out of 11 barges underline their robust design, operational reliability, and strategic value to India’s maritime force.

Strategic Importance

Make in India Success: These barges represent a clear shift towards indigenous defence manufacturing, reducing dependence on imports.
Aatmanirbhar Bharat Alignment: Built by an MSME, the project showcases how small-scale industries are contributing to national security.
Operational Readiness: The barges are now actively supporting the Navy’s logistical operations, ensuring timely and safe transport of sensitive armament.