Kolkata

Defence public sector undertaking Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) on Wednesday launched ‘Sanghamitra’, the first of four next-generation offshore patrol vessels (NGOPVs) being constructed for the Indian Navy.

The vessel was ceremonially launched at the GRSE shipyard in Kolkata by Sarita Vatsayan, wife of Vice Admiral Sanjay Vatsayan, the Vice Chief of Naval Staff, in the presence of senior naval and shipyard officials. Traditional rituals and chanting of shlokas marked the occasion.

Speaking at the launch event, Vice Admiral Vatsayan said the Indian Navy has steadily transformed into a force focused not only on combat readiness but also on ensuring maritime stability through cooperation, operational preparedness and sustained presence at sea.

He said the next-generation offshore patrol vessel project carries major strategic importance in strengthening India’s maritime capabilities.

The Vice Chief of Naval Staff also praised GRSE for delivering eight naval ships during the previous financial year, highlighting the shipyard’s growing contribution to indigenous defence manufacturing.

Officials said the NGOPVs are significantly more advanced than conventional offshore patrol vessels, featuring enhanced endurance, operational flexibility and greater firepower.

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

According to officials, the ship has an operational endurance of nearly 8,500 nautical miles at a cruising speed of 14 knots and can achieve a top speed of 23 knots.

With a draught requirement of only four metres, the vessel is capable of operating effectively in shallow coastal waters. It is designed for a range of missions including protection of offshore assets, maritime interdiction, surveillance operations, and visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) tasks.

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The NGOPVs will also support mine warfare activities and special operations missions, officials added.