Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL) has initiated the production of the first of seven next-generation offshore patrol vessels (NGOPVs) aimed at enhancing anti-piracy and surveillance capabilities for the Indian Navy.
The keel laying ceremony for the inaugural NGOPV was conducted at GSL in Goa, attended by prominent naval officials including Vice Admiral B Siva Kumar, Controller Warship Production & Acquisition, and BK Upadhyay, Chairman & Managing Director of GSL. These NGOPVs are designated for various missions, encompassing anti-piracy operations, coastal defence, surveillance, search and rescue, and safeguarding offshore assets. Their deployment is poised to fortify the Indian Navy’s combat readiness, ensuring the protection of economic and geopolitical interests in the Indian Ocean Region. The contracts for the construction of 11 NGOPVs were formalised under the Buy (Indian-IDDM) category in March 2023, involving GSL and Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata. While GSL will oversee the construction of seven vessels, GRSE will undertake the production of four. This initiative, valued at ₹1,614.89 crore, underscores the commitment to indigenous shipbuilding and aligns with India’s ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ and ‘Make in India’ initiatives.
Equipped with cutting-edge features and technology, including multipurpose drones, AI capabilities, and wirelessly controlled remote water rescue craft lifebuoys, these 115-metre OPVs will provide enhanced flexibility and operational advantages to the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) in addressing contemporary multidimensional challenges. The commencement of NGOPV production marks a significant milestone in India’s pursuit of self-reliance in shipbuilding. Notably, the initiative is poised to bolster the Indian Navy’s operational capabilities and contribute to maritime security efforts in the Indian Ocean Region.
