Keel laying ceremony held for next generation offshore patrol vessel at GSL

In a significant milestone for India's maritime self-reliance, the keel for Yard 1283, the fourth Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessel (NGOPV) under construction at Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL), was ceremoniously laid today. The event was graced by Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, Vice Chief of the Naval Staff, as the Chief Guest. Brajesh Kumar Upadhyay, Chairman and Managing Director of GSL, along with senior officials from the Indian Navy and GSL, were also present.

The NGOPV project is part of a broader initiative to strengthen India’s coastal security and maritime capabilities. Under contracts signed on 30 March 2023, a total of 11 NGOPVs are being constructed, seven by GSL, Goa, and four by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata.

Designed with an approximate displacement of 3000 tonnes, the NGOPVs are tailored for a diverse range of operations, including coastal defence and surveillance, search and rescue missions, protection of offshore assets, and anti-piracy tasks. These versatile platforms will play a pivotal role in augmenting the Indian Navy’s operational readiness across the Indian Ocean Region.

Aligned with the Government of India’s 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' and 'Make in India' initiatives, the NGOPV programme reflects the nation's commitment to enhancing indigenous defence manufacturing and maritime self-sufficiency.

The successful progression of the NGOPV programme marks a strategic step in fortifying India's maritime infrastructure and underscores the synergy between the Indian Navy and domestic shipbuilding capabilities.