India Strengthens Maritime Defense with NGOPV Construction in Mumbai
India begins building its 4th advanced patrol vessel to strengthen maritime security.
The plate cutting ceremony for the fourth of six Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessels (NGOPVs) for the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) was held at Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd (MDL) in Mumbai on Wednesday, marking a significant step in enhancing India’s maritime security. These 117-metre vessels, designed and built indigenously, align with the government’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision for self-reliance in defence manufacturing.
The NGOPVs, capable of speeds up to 23 knots and an operational range of 5,000 nautical miles, are equipped with state-of-the-art technologies, including AI-based predictive maintenance systems, remote piloted drones, an Integrated Bridge System, and an Integrated Platform Management System. These advancements will significantly strengthen the ICG’s ability to safeguard India’s vast maritime domain. Each vessel can accommodate 11 officers and 110 personnel, ensuring robust operational capacity.
The project, contracted on December 20, 2023, under the ‘Buy (Indian-IDDM)’ category, underscores India’s commitment to indigenously designed, developed, and manufactured defence equipment. The ceremony was presided over by Inspector General N G Raveendran, Deputy Director General (Technical), ICG Eastern Seaboard, alongside A Vinod, Executive Director (Shipbuilding), MDL, and senior officials from both organizations.
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This initiative highlights India’s growing prowess in defence manufacturing and reinforces the ICG’s mission to protect national maritime interests with enhanced efficiency and cutting-edge technology.
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