New Delhi. 28 March 2024. In a significant development emphasising the robust ties between United Kingdom and India, Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA) ships RFA Argus and RFA Lyme Bay arrived at L&T Shipbuilding’s Kattupalli Shipyard for Assisted Maintenance Period (AMP) and Self Maintenance Period (SMP) respectively. This marks a historical milestone in the longstanding collaboration between UK and India in the maritime domain.
The choice of L&T Shipbuilding highlights the growing stature of L&T in the field of shipbuilding and ship repairs. Given the state-of-the-art infrastructure, expanse and skilled workforce, L&T’s Shipyard, equipped with shiplift facility, multiple dry berths and wet berths, is well equipped to undertake complex maintenance requirements of modern naval vessels.
Oliver Ballhatchet MBE, Deputy British High Commissioner remarked that “This is the first instance that Royal Navy ships are undergoing scheduled maintenance routines in India. This move signifies a step towards India-UK 2030 Roadmap and reflects a shared understanding of the global security challenges in the Indian Ocean Region”.
Commenting on the landmark occasion, J D Patil, Member of Executive Council of Management and Advisor to CMD – L&T, said that the successful collaboration between Royal Navy and L&T Shipbuilding exemplifies the spirit of partnership and is a direct result of the logistics-sharing agreement signed between the UK and India in 2022.” Adding to this, A T Ramchandani, Executive Vice President & Head – L&T Defence, said “The visit of the Royal Fleet Auxiliary ships, after US Navy ships last year, showcases the global recognition of L&T’s unmatched capabilities and facilities to undertake quality shipbuilding & refits.”
The RFA Lyme Bay is a Landing Ship Dock and the RFA Argus is a Primary Casualty Receiving Ship and Aviation Support Vessel of the Royal Fleet Auxiliary.
