Overview

• The keel-laying for Yard 16401 at Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd in Mumbai marks the formal start of hull construction for the first of six NGOPVs contracted in December 2023.
• Each 117-metre ship will carry 11 officers and 110 crew, achieve speeds up to 23 knots and sail up to 5,000 nautical miles on missions ranging from surveillance to search and rescue.
• The NGOPVs will integrate AI-based predictive maintenance systems, remote-piloted drones, an Integrated Bridge System and an Integrated Platform Management System to enhance operational efficiency.
• On July 21, Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers launched Ajay, the eighth and final Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft, while delivery of the second ASW vessel is scheduled for August.
• The programme supports India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat defence manufacturing drive and strengthens coastal security by expanding the Coast Guard’s patrol and anti-submarine capabilities.