The Ministry of Defence has formalized an agreement with Mazagon Dockyard Shipbuilders Ltd (MDL) in Mumbai on December 20, 2023, for the acquisition of six Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessels (NGOPVs) for the Indian Coast Guard (ICG). Valued at Rs 1614.89 Crore, the contract falls under the Buy (Indian-IDDM) category.
This procurement is a step towards enhancing the capabilities of the Indian Coast Guard and underscores the government’s heightened commitment to maritime security. These NGOPVs are slated to replace four aging Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs) while adding two vessels to the ICG fleet.
These state-of-the-art vessels, with a length of 115 meters, will play a pivotal role in critical operations such as surveillance, law enforcement, search and rescue missions, maritime pollution response, and humanitarian assistance.
Equipped with cutting-edge features, including Multipurpose Drones, AI capabilities, and Wirelessly Controlled Remote Water Rescue Craft Lifebuoy, these NGOPVs offer heightened flexibility and operational superiority to tackle contemporary multidimensional challenges. This strategic acquisition aims to enhance the ICG’s operational capacity, aligning with the government’s heightened emphasis on maritime security.
Designed, developed, and manufactured by MDL, Mumbai, these state-of-the-art vessels will be delivered over a period of 66 months. The contract emphasizes indigenous shipbuilding capabilities, promoting maritime economic activities, and fostering growth in ancillary industries, particularly the MSME sector. The project is anticipated to create job opportunities and facilitate expertise development within the country.
