The fifth 25-tonne Bollard Pull (BP) Tug ‘Ojas’ was ceremonially launched at M/s Titagarh Rail Systems Limited (TRSL), Kolkata, marking a key milestone in the Indian Navy’s push for enhancing its auxiliary maritime capability. The launch event was graced by Commodore Sanjay Kumar, President SSB, Kolkata, who was the Chief Guest on the occasion.
The launch of ‘Ojas’ is part of a contract for six 25T BP Tugs, signed with TRSL on 12 November 2021, under the Indian Navy’s broader strategy of indigenising its shipbuilding and support capabilities. The tugs are being indigenously designed and constructed in line with Naval Rules and Regulations of the Indian Register of Shipping (IRS).
Operational Utility and Capabilities
These tugs play a vital role in assisting naval ships and submarines during berthing, un-berthing, and manoeuvring in restricted harbour areas. Their robust design also enables them to provide afloat firefighting support to naval vessels either at berth or at anchorage. Additionally, they are equipped to undertake limited Search and Rescue (SAR) operations, adding to their operational versatility.
With the successful delivery of the first four tugs, the Indian Navy has already begun employing them in daily harbour operations, and the induction of ‘Ojas’ will further strengthen the Navy’s logistics and operational infrastructure at key naval bases.
Promoting Indigenous Shipbuilding
The construction and launch of these tugs are a significant demonstration of the Government of India’s focus on ‘Make in India’ and ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ in the defence sector. These platforms, built by an Indian shipyard using domestic expertise, highlight the growing strength of India’s indigenous shipbuilding capabilities.
Upon completion and commissioning of all six tugs, the Indian Navy will be better equipped to handle complex port operations and emergency support tasks, ensuring smoother and safer movement of its fleet across major naval bases.
The launch of ‘Ojas’ reflects the Navy’s continued commitment to enhancing its self-reliant maritime capabilities through sustainable, indigenous solutions.
