Construction starts on fifth OPV for Indian Coast Guard

Construction on the domestically designed fifth new offshore patrol vessel (OPV) for the Indian Coast Guard has started with the keel laying ceremony in Goa Shipyard (GSL).

The new OPV is being built as part of a contract to construct six OPVs for the coast guard. Construction on the initial four vessels started on 28 September 2012, 28 January 2013, 11 October 2013 and 9 January 2014.

Claimed to be most advanced patrol vessels in service with the coast guard, the new 105m-long vessels boast a displacement capacity of 2400t, while featuring a contemporary navigational integrated bridge system with bridge watch navigational call up system and CCTV System for complete surveillance.

The vessels also feature quick response boats intended for rescue and anti piracy; four lane simulator for small arms training and several other advanced features.

Based on in-house design of Goa Shipyard, the hull of the vessel is designed to offer fuel efficiency, crew comfort and advanced sea keeping qualities.

NM CMD GSL former rear admiral Shekhar Mital said: "The ongoing construction of six OPVs for Coast Guard is in full swing and we will launch three OPVs in succession from September – December 2014.

"Further the first vessel will be ready for delivery as per schedule by 15 October and all six vessels will be delivered by 17 November."

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