Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) Ltd is set to unveil the first Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessel (NGOPV) for the Indian Navy on May 20. This vessel is part of a series of four warships being constructed by the shipyard. The NGOPV emphasizes high indigenous content, aligning with India’s self-reliance objectives.
Vice Admiral Sanjay Vatsayan, Vice Chief of Naval Staff, Indian Navy, will grace the launch event, where Sarita Vatsayan, his wife, will christen the warship. GRSE has a history of delivering Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs) to the Indian Navy and Coast Guard. Notably, GRSE previously exported the OPV MCGS Barracuda to Mauritius in 2014, earning recognition for its design efforts.
The NGOPVs represent a significant advancement over previous OPVs, boasting larger size, enhanced endurance, and firepower capabilities. These vessels will measure approximately 113 meters in length, 14.6 meters in width, with a displacement of 3,000 tons. Operating at speeds of up to 23 knots, they offer an endurance of 8,500 nautical miles at 14 knots, accommodating a crew of 24 officers and over 100 sailors.
Designed for versatile roles, the NGOPVs can navigate in coastal waters with a shallow draught of 4 meters. Their functions include safeguarding offshore assets, conducting maritime interdiction, and executing visit, board, search, and seizure (VBSS) operations. Additionally, they will contribute to presence-cum-surveillance, mine warfare missions, and support special operations. These warships will partake in various operations such as non-combatant evacuation, anti-piracy missions, and humanitarian assistance, demonstrating a wide spectrum of capabilities.
