India Launches Third MCA Barge, Advancing “Make in India” Initiative in Defense”

India Launches Third MCA Barge, Advancing "Make in India" Initiative in Defense"

VoM News Desk | September 24, 2023 | 06:16 PM IST | Breaking News, Security | Follow on Google News

India Launches Third MCA Barge, Advancing “Make in India” Initiative in Defense”

Third MCA Barge Takes to the Waters

On September 22, the Ministry of Defence proudly announced the launch of the Third Missile Cum Ammunition (MCA) Barge, designated as Yard 77 (LSAM 9). This significant event took place at Guttenadeevi, East Godavari, Andhra Pradesh, with the launch overseen by Cmde G Ravi, the Warship Production Superintendent from Visakhapatnam.

Indigenous Excellence

This MCA Barge stands as a shining example of indigenous excellence, with all major and auxiliary equipment/systems sourced from domestic manufacturers. It serves as a testament to India’s unwavering commitment to the “Make in India” initiatives of the Ministry of Defence.

Aatmanirbhar Bharat: Self-Reliant India

The construction and delivery of a total of eight Missile Cum Ammunition (MCA) Barges were contracted with M/s SECON Engineering Projects Pvt Ltd, Visakhapatnam, a Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprise (MSME). This alignment with the “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” (Self-Reliant India) initiative of the Government of India underscores the nation’s determination to bolster its self-reliance in defense manufacturing.

Steadfast Progress

Notably, the MSME shipyard had already delivered the first MCA Barge on July 18, 2023, and launched the Second Barge on August 18, 2023, showcasing the swift and determined progress in bolstering India’s defense capabilities.

Built to Endure

The MCA Barge, constructed under the classification rules of the Indian Register of Shipping (IRS), is built to last with a service life of 30 years. This longevity ensures that it will remain a valuable asset in India’s defense infrastructure for decades to come.

Enhancing Operational Capabilities

The availability of MCA Barges marks a significant development in India’s operational commitments, particularly for the Indian Navy (IN). These barges play a pivotal role in facilitating the transportation, embarkation, and disembarkation of articles and ammunition for IN ships. They serve this purpose both alongside jetties and at outer harbors, enhancing the Navy’s flexibility and readiness.

Advancing Defense Capabilities

The launch of the Third MCA Barge represents a substantial stride in India’s journey toward advancing its defense capabilities while promoting domestic manufacturing. This achievement reflects the nation’s commitment to bolstering its self-sufficiency in defense production, a crucial aspect of its broader defense strategy.

VoM News Desk

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