Source: PIB

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Context

Keel laying ceremony of Yard 3040, the 4th Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessel (NGOPV) being built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Ltd, Kolkata was recently held.

Marks a key milestone in India’s indigenous naval shipbuilding capability under ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’.

What are NGOPVs?

NGOPVs are next-generation warships designed to conduct multi-role maritime operations to enhance India’s maritime security and naval presence.

Specifications

Strategic Role and Capabilities

Primary Missions

Coastal Defence and Surveillance: Regular patrolling to monitor suspicious activity and intrusion.

Search and Rescue (SAR): Rapid response to maritime emergencies and natural disasters.

Protection of Offshore Assets: Securing oil platforms, refineries, and undersea infrastructure.

Anti-Piracy Operations: Neutralizing piracy threats in the Exclusive Economic Zone and international waters.

Environmental Monitoring & Pollution Control: Support operations in maritime ecological protection.

Technological Features

Advanced Sensors and Radars: For surveillance, reconnaissance, and threat detection.

Modern Weapon Systems: Guns, small missiles, and anti-air/anti-surface systems (likely).

Helicopter Capability: Onboard deck for utility or surveillance helicopters.

Integrated Bridge System: Seamless operations control and navigation.

Importance for India

Strategic

Enhances maritime domain awareness in the Indian Ocean Region.

Supports India’s ambitions as a net security provider in the region.

Helps deter non-traditional maritime threats like piracy, terrorism and illegal fishing.

Diplomatic

Facilitates Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief missions across the Indo-Pacific.

Strengthens naval diplomacy via Joint Exercises and Goodwill Port Calls.

Sources:

PIB