The Indian Navy enhanced its operational support capabilities with the formal induction of the 25-tonne Bollard Pull (BP) Tug named 'Yuvan'. The commissioning ceremony took place at the Naval Dockyard in Visakhapatnam, with Commodore Rajeev John, General Manager (Refit), officiating as the Chief Guest.
'Yuvan' is the fourth vessel delivered as part of a contract signed on November 12, 2021, between the Ministry of Defence and Kolkata-based M/s Titagarh Rail Systems Limited (TRSL) for the construction of six such tugs. Highlighting India's growing self-reliance in defence manufacturing, these tugs have been entirely designed and constructed domestically.
They adhere to the stringent Naval Rules and Regulations specified by the Indian Register of Shipping (IRS), an internationally recognised independent ship classification society.
The Indian Navy is already utilising the three previously delivered tugs from this contract. These powerful vessels play a crucial role in assisting larger naval ships and submarines with berthing and un-berthing operations, particularly in the restricted waters of harbours and docks.
Furthermore, the tugs are equipped to provide essential support, including afloat fire-fighting assistance to ships docked or at anchorage, and possess capabilities for undertaking limited Search and Rescue (SAR) missions when required.
The induction of 'Yuvan' and its sister tugs represents a significant step forward for the 'Make in India' and 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' (Self-Reliant India) initiatives championed by the Government of India. These initiatives aim to bolster indigenous design, development, and manufacturing capabilities, particularly within the critical defence sector, reducing dependency on foreign suppliers and boosting the national economy.
