The third of eleven Next-Generation Offshore Patrol Vessels for the Indian Navy is scheduled to be launched in Kolkata on 11 August. The vessels are being constructed jointly by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Limited and Goa Shipyard Limited, with GRSE responsible for four and GSL for seven.

This latest launch will mark the second NGOPV to be launched by GRSE, following the commissioning of INS Sanghamitra on 20 May. GSL had earlier launched its first NGOPV, INS Shaachi, on 31 March 2026.

The launch ceremony will be attended by Vice Admiral Sanjay Sadhu, Controller Warship Production and Acquisition, who will serve as the chief guest. The vessel will be formally launched by his wife, Manika Sadhu, in accordance with naval tradition.

Senior Navy officials have confirmed that the NGOPV project is progressing on schedule, with three vessels now under construction. The next phase will involve the installation of advanced equipment and systems, with deliveries to the Navy expected to commence from 2028. This program is a critical component of the Navy’s long-term target of building a fleet of 200 warships.

The NGOPVs represent a significant advancement over the patrol vessels currently in service. They will feature enhanced stealth characteristics, improved endurance, and modern weapons and sensors, enabling them to undertake a wide range of maritime operations.

Future warships for the Indian Navy, including corvettes, frigates, survey vessels and destroyers, will increasingly incorporate next-generation technologies, reflecting the Navy’s evolving focus on modernisation and multirole capability.

Each NGOPV will measure approximately 113 metres in length and 14.6 metres in width, with a displacement of around 3,000 tons. They will be capable of achieving speeds of up to 23 knots and will have an endurance of about 8,500 nautical miles at a cruising speed of 14 knots. With a draught requirement of only four metres, they will be able to operate effectively in shallow coastal waters, making them suitable for securing offshore assets and conducting interdiction missions.

The vessels are designed for a wide spectrum of missions. They will be deployed for maritime surveillance, protection of critical offshore infrastructure, and action against suspicious activities.

They will also be capable of conducting boarding, search and seizure operations, mine warfare, and special operations. Their versatility will extend to contingency missions in remote areas, evacuation of non-combatants, convoy protection, anti-piracy patrols, and anti-infiltration operations.

The NGOPVs will also play a role in countering illegal fishing and smuggling activities. In times of natural disasters or emergencies, they will support humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, as well as search and rescue operations.

If required, they can be configured to serve as hospital ships or communications intelligence platforms, in addition to providing fleet support and maintenance assistance. This adaptability underscores their importance in strengthening India’s maritime security posture and enhancing operational readiness in the Indian Ocean Region.

Agencies