On November 5, 2024, the keel laying ceremony for Yard 3037 and 3038, the first and second Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessels (NGOPV), was successfully conducted at Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Ltd (GRSE) in Kolkata. The ceremony was honored by the presence of the Hon’ble Governor of West Bengal, Dr. CV Ananda Bose, along with senior officials from the Indian Navy and representatives from GRSE.
This significant event underscores a major step forward in India's naval capabilities, with the contracts for the indigenous design and construction of 11 NGOPVs being finalized in March 2023. The contracts were awarded to Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL) for seven vessels and GRSE for four vessels, marking a strategic move towards enhancing the country’s maritime security framework.
The NGOPVs, each boasting an approximate tonnage of 3,000 tons, are specifically designed for a range of critical operations including coastal defense and surveillance, search and rescue missions, protection of offshore assets, and anti-piracy operations.
The keel laying of these vessels is a significant milestone in the Indian Navy's commitment to indigenous shipbuilding, aligning with the nation’s vision of 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' (Self-Reliant India) and the 'Make in India' initiative. This project not only enhances the operational readiness of the Navy but also strengthens the indigenous shipbuilding industry, contributing to the broader goals of economic self-sufficiency and national security.
As the Indian Navy continues to expand and modernize its fleet, the successful keel laying of the NGOPVs marks a pivotal moment in the country’s maritime history, paving the way for future advancements in naval technology and capabilities.(PR)