New Delhi: The Indian Coast Guard marked a key milestone with the keel laying OPVs ceremony for two next generation offshore patrol vessels aimed at strengthening maritime security.
The ceremony for Yard 16402 and 16403, the second and third ships of six vessels, took place at M/s YMPL in Ratnagiri on March 17, 2026. Officials said the project forms part of efforts to enhance coastal defence capabilities.
During the event, IG Sudhir Sahni, TM, DDG (M&M), presided over the ceremony in the presence of senior officials from the Indian Coast Guard and Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited.
These vessels are being designed, developed and constructed indigenously by MDL under the Buy (Indian-IDDM) category. The contract for building six such ships was finalised on December 20, 2023.
The ships will have a range of 5,000 nautical miles and can reach a top speed of 23 knots. In addition, each vessel will measure 117 metres in length and accommodate 11 officers and 110 personnel.
Keel laying OPVs highlights advanced technology features
Moreover, the vessels will include advanced systems such as AI-based predictive maintenance tools and remote piloted drones. They will also feature an Integrated Bridge System and an Integrated Platform Management System.
Officials said these technologies will improve operational efficiency and readiness. As a result, the ships will support surveillance, patrol and response capabilities across maritime zones.
The addition of these vessels is expected to strengthen the Coast Guard’s role in protecting India’s maritime interests. Furthermore, it aligns with the government’s Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative to promote indigenous defence manufacturing.
The keel laying event marked progress in expanding the fleet with modern platforms. Authorities said the project will enhance both capability and self-reliance in the maritime sector.
