Indian Navy Strengthens Maritime Support with the Launch of ‘Ojas’

The Indian Navy has taken another significant step toward enhancing its maritime logistics and operational capabilities with the successful launch of the fifth 25-tonne Bollard Pull (BP) Tug, ‘Ojas’, at Titagarh Rail Systems Limited (TRSL), Kolkata. This event marks a key milestone in India’s pursuit of self-reliance in shipbuilding and maritime infrastructure. The launch ceremony was presided over by Commodore Sanjay Kumar, President SSB, Kolkata, who graced the occasion as the Chief Guest.

This launch is part of an ambitious contract for six 25T BP Tugs, signed with TRSL on November 12, 2021, under the Indian Navy’s broader initiative to indigenize shipbuilding and modernize its support fleet. These tugs are designed and built in compliance with the Naval Rules and Regulations of the Indian Register of Shipping (IRS), ensuring they meet the highest safety and operational standards. Their addition to the naval fleet is expected to significantly enhance the Indian Navy’s ability to manage complex port operations and emergency maritime tasks efficiently.

Strategic Importance of ‘Ojas’ and Its Capabilities

The newly launched ‘Ojas’—along with its previously commissioned sister vessels—plays a pivotal role in assisting naval ships and submarines during berthing, un-berthing, and maneuvering within restricted harbour areas. These tugs are engineered with a durable and robust structure, allowing them to provide afloat firefighting support to naval vessels either at berth or at anchorage. Additionally, they are outfitted with specialized equipment to undertake limited Search and Rescue (SAR) operations, further expanding their utility in emergency response scenarios.

As the Indian Navy continues to expand its fleet, the demand for high-performance auxiliary vessels like these tugs has grown significantly. With the first four tugs already in active service, they have become an indispensable part of daily harbour operations. The addition of ‘Ojas’ will further reinforce the Navy’s logistics and operational readiness at key naval bases, ensuring a seamless movement of ships and submarines in strategic maritime zones.

How Bollard Pull Tugs Support Naval Operations

Bollard Pull Tugs are essential for managing large naval vessels that cannot navigate restricted waters without assistance. The 25-tonne Bollard Pull capability of these tugs means they can effectively push or pull even the heaviest of warships and submarines within confined spaces, reducing the risk of accidents. This ensures the safety of valuable naval assets and enhances the operational efficiency of major ports.

Apart from berthing assistance, these tugs play a crucial role in handling emergency situations, such as rescuing distressed vessels, controlling oil spills, and responding to fire outbreaks on naval ships. The inclusion of firefighting equipment onboard significantly boosts the Indian Navy’s ability to manage such crises without needing external support.

Boosting India’s Indigenous Shipbuilding Industry

The successful construction and launch of these tugs reaffirm the Government of India’s strong focus on ‘Make in India’ and ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ in the defense and maritime sectors. Built entirely by an Indian shipyard using domestic expertise, technology, and resources, these vessels serve as a testament to India’s growing self-reliance in shipbuilding and maritime engineering.

By indigenously designing and manufacturing these tugs, India reduces its dependency on foreign shipbuilders, which in turn strengthens national security and boosts the domestic defense manufacturing ecosystem. This project has also generated employment opportunities and fostered technological advancements in the Indian naval shipbuilding sector.

Future Impact on the Indian Navy’s Operations

Upon the completion and commissioning of all six tugs, the Indian Navy will be in a stronger position to handle complex port operations, logistics support, and emergency response tasks. The presence of these modern and well-designed tugs will significantly enhance the efficiency and safety of naval fleet movements across major naval bases.

Additionally, these tugs will help optimize naval operations by reducing turnaround time for large warships, which in turn will improve the overall readiness of the Navy. In a rapidly evolving geopolitical environment, such enhancements in maritime logistics and support capabilities will allow the Indian Navy to respond swiftly to regional and global security challenges.

The Role of Auxiliary Vessels in Naval Modernization

While warships, submarines, and aircraft carriers dominate discussions around naval modernization, auxiliary vessels like tugs, supply ships, and patrol boats play an equally vital role in maintaining a well-functioning maritime force. Without a robust network of support vessels, the primary fleet cannot operate at its full potential.

In recent years, the Indian Navy has increasingly focused on strengthening its auxiliary fleet, recognizing the importance of support ships in ensuring mission success, logistical efficiency, and enhanced operational flexibility. The addition of the 25T BP Tugs is another step toward achieving a modern, self-reliant, and combat-ready naval force.