In a significant boost to indigenous naval capabilities, the Indian Navy inducted the fifth in the series of 25-ton Bollard Pull tugboats, ‘Ojas,’ at the Naval Dockyard in Visakhapatnam today. Built under the Make in India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiatives, Tug ‘Ojas’ enhances the Navy’s operational readiness by improving berthing, towing, and rescue support for warships.

The tugboat is part of a broader fleet modernization strategy and has been constructed by Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL), a key player in India’s defense manufacturing sector. With modern firefighting, towing, and salvage capabilities, ‘Ojas’ is designed to operate in both harbor and open-sea conditions, offering critical logistical support to larger naval assets.

The induction ceremony was attended by senior naval officers, engineers from HSL, and local dignitaries who celebrated this milestone in India’s quest for self-reliance in defense manufacturing.

Rear Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar, Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Naval Command, said, “Ojas is a reflection of India’s evolving shipbuilding capabilities. It will significantly aid our fleet's mobility, safety, and maintenance activities.”

With ‘Ojas’ joining the ranks, the Indian Navy further consolidates its mission to build a stronger, self-reliant maritime force aligned with national strategic goals.