New Delhi, 20 August 2025: Today marked an exciting milestone at Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd in Mumbai. The Plate Cutting Ceremony for Yard 16404, the fourth of six Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessels (NGOPVs), took place. Inspector General NG Raveendran, along with Mr. A Vinod from MDL and other senior officials, were present to celebrate this achievement.
The NGOPVs are part of a contract signed on December 20, 2023. These vessels are being designed and built in India, aligning with the government’s goal of Aatma Nirbhar Bharat, which promotes self-reliance in defense manufacturing.
Each NGOPV will be 117 meters long and crewed by 11 officers and 110 personnel. They can reach speeds of up to 23 knots and travel over 5,000 nautical miles. These ships will feature advanced technologies like AI-based maintenance systems, remote piloted drones, and integrated management systems, ensuring they are state-of-the-art.
This initiative is crucial for the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) as they enhance their maritime capabilities and coastal security. With the addition of these vessels, the ICG can better protect India’s maritime interests.
Moreover, this project reflects India’s growing prowess in defense manufacturing. Recent statistics show that India’s defense sector is projected to grow significantly, with an estimated value reaching $130 billion by 2025. As the country focuses on indigenous innovation, initiatives like these pave the way for strategic autonomy in defense and security.
In a world where global maritime challenges are increasing, the commitment to advancing domestic capabilities not only strengthens India’s defenses but also fosters economic growth through job creation in the manufacturing sector.
For more information on India’s defense initiatives, check out the Ministry of Defence’s official reports.
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