GRSE launches first next-gen offshore patrol vessel for Indian Navy

Defence PSU Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) Ltd on Wednesday launched 'Sanghamitra', the first of four next-generation offshore patrol vessels (NGOPVs) being built for the Indian Navy, officials said.

The vessel was launched by Sarita Vatsayan, wife of Vice Admiral Sanjay Vatsayan, Vice Chief of Naval Staff, amid traditional rituals and chanting of shlokas at the GRSE facility in Kolkata.

Addressing the event as the chief guest, Vice Admiral Vatsayan said the Indian Navy has evolved into a force committed not only to combat preparedness but also to maintaining a stable maritime environment through cooperation, presence and operational readiness.

''In this broader context, the next-generation offshore patrol vessel project holds considerable significance,'' he said.

He commended GRSE for delivering eight ships to the Indian Navy during the last financial year.

The NGOPVs are significantly larger and more capable than conventional offshore patrol vessels, with enhanced endurance and firepower, officials said.

The vessel measures around 113 metres in length and 14.6 metres in width, with a displacement of 3,000 tonnes, they said.

The ship, they added, has an endurance of 8,500 nautical miles at a cruising speed of 14 knots and can achieve a maximum speed of 23 knots.

With a draught requirement of only four metres, the vessel is capable of operating in coastal waters for the protection of offshore assets, maritime interdiction and visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) operations.

The NGOPVs will also undertake surveillance and mine warfare missions and support special operations, officials said.

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