The Indian Navy signed a contract with M/s Shoft Shipyard Private Limited, Thane, Maharashtra, for the construction of four 500-tonne Self-Propelled Fuel Barges in March 2026. The barges will strengthen naval logistics and fuel supply operations by providing efficient afloat fuel support to warships at anchorages and harbours.

The contract aligns with the Make in India initiative for defence manufacturing. The self-propelled fuel barges are essential for operational sustainability of the fleet, enabling fuelling operations without requiring warships to berth at port fuel installations.