Indian Navy Boosts ‘Make in India’ with New Contract for 500-Ton Fuel Barges
New Delhi, March 3, 2026 — In a significant step to bolster domestic defense manufacturing, the Ministry of Defence has concluded a new contract for the construction of four 500-ton (500T) Self-Propelled Fuel Barges for the Indian Navy.
The agreement, officially signed on Monday, March 2, was awarded to M/s Shoft Shipyard Private Limited, a Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprise (MSME) based in Thane, Maharashtra.
Operational Role of the Barges
According to the official release from the Ministry of Defence, the primary function of these specialized 500T fuel barges will be to facilitate the replenishment of fuel for Indian Navy ships and submarines. The vessels are designed to operate efficiently within harbor limits and at anchorage, streamlining the logistical and refueling capabilities of the naval fleet.
The barges will be constructed under the stringent Classification Rules of the Indian Register of Shipping (IRS), ensuring they meet the highest safety and operational standards required for military support vessels.
Pushing ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ and MSME Growth
The Ministry highlighted that the acquisition is a proud flag-bearer of the Government of India’s “Make in India” and “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” (Self-Reliant India) initiatives. By awarding this crucial defense contract to a domestic MSME shipyard, the Indian Navy is actively working to encourage and bolster the growth of smaller enterprises within the strategic sector.
The move is also aligned with the broader objectives of the Maritime India Vision 2030, which seeks to immensely contribute toward building a robust and self-sustaining domestic shipbuilding ecosystem.
