VASCO
Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL) has launched the indigenous Coast Guard Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV), the fifth vessel of the 5 OPV Project.
According to a press release, the fifth and the last vessel of the indigenous project for five OPVs for Indian Coast Guard was launched by Jayanthi Natarajan, wife of DG K Natarajan, Director General of Coast Guard who was the chief guest at the event in GSL on Monday.
"The vessel was named as ICGS ‘Saksham’. Considering the ongoing restrictions due to Covid protocol in force, the function was held in a scaled down manner at GSL in the presence of Flag Officer Goa Area Rear Admiral Philipose G Pynumootil, IG A P Badola, COMCG (W), GSL CMD Commodore BB Nagpal, and other dignitaries," stated a GSL press release.
"The indigenous project was launched by the prime minister on November 13, 2016. Since then, two vessels have been commissioned and all five have been launched. In spite of the ongoing Covid situation and disruptions in supply chains, the shipyard completed the 100% hull construction and launch the vessel within 18 months from keel laying which was in June 2019. The vessel is in advanced stage of outfitting and will be ready for delivery by Oct 2021, as per the contractual schedule."
"Entirely designed in-house by the professionals of GSL, these OPVs will form a formidable part of the Coast Guard Fleet and used for protection of Exclusive Economic Zone of territorial water of the Nation.”
“These vessels will be fitted with most modern and technologically advanced machinery and computerized controls systems, making them the most advanced Patrol Vessels in service with the Indian Coast Guard on delivery.”
“These 2,400 tonne vessels will be equipped with features like Quick Response Boats for rescue and anti piracy, gunnery simulators and many more advanced features. The hull would be the most efficient form designed by GSL and would provide for fuel efficiency, crew comfort and excellent sea keeping qualities.”
DG ICG K Natarajan said the launch of the ship would help Indian Coast Guard in performing multifarious roles chartered to Indian Coast Guard more effectively.
GSL CMD Cmde B B Nagpal said the launch of the fifth OPV despite the serious supply chain constrains imposed by Covid-19 is a major feat for GSL.
“In line with the Shipyard’s tradition of delivering on time, we are confident to deliver this last vessel of the project, launched today, by October 2021.”
“Our endeavour has been to maximise the indigenous content on these ships and I am happy to state that more than 70% indigenisation has been achieved for these ships,” he added.
