The Indian Register of Shipping (IRS) has achieved a significant milestone with the launch of its first defence-export project — a Floating Dry Dock (FDD) constructed for the Sri Lanka Navy at Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL).
The launching ceremony was held on 19 February 2026 at GSL in Goa, with Rear Admiral MDK Wijewardana of the Sri Lanka Navy attending as Chief Guest. Senior officials from the shipyard and IRS were also present on the occasion. The project marks a landmark achievement in IRS’s expanding defence portfolio and highlights India’s growing stature as a trusted maritime partner in the Indian Ocean Region.
Designed and built to meet the operational requirements of the Sri Lanka Navy, the Floating Dry Dock will substantially enhance the Navy’s in-country ship repair and maintenance capabilities. The facility will support underwater repairs and maintenance of a wide range of naval vessels, strengthening operational readiness and advancing self-reliance.
IRS has been closely associated with the project, providing classification services and technical oversight in accordance with its Rules and global standards. The successful launch underscores the strong collaboration between IRS, Goa Shipyard Limited and the Sri Lanka Navy.
The project aligns with India’s broader strategic objectives of promoting indigenous shipbuilding, boosting defence exports and reinforcing its position as a global maritime hub.
“This launch marks a historic milestone for IRS as our first defence export project,” said Cdr KK Dhawan, Head Defence at IRS. “It reflects the trust placed in Indian shipbuilding and classification capabilities and demonstrates our commitment to supporting friendly foreign navies with robust, reliable and globally benchmarked technical standards. We are proud to contribute to strengthening maritime cooperation between India and Sri Lanka.”
