The Defence Ministry inked a ₹
1,614-crore agreement with Mazagon Dockyard Shipbuilders Ltd for procurement of
six next-generation offshore patrol vessels for the Indian Coast Guard.
The acquisition of the platforms is
aimed at boosting the Coast Guard’s capability towards maritime security, the
defence ministry said.
“The Ministry of Defence signed a
contract with Mazagon Dockyard Shipbuilders Ltd on December 20 for the
procurement of six next-generation offshore patrol vessels for the Indian Coast
Guard (ICG),” the ministry said.
It said the contract was made under the
buy (Indian-IDDM) category at a total cost of ₹ 1,614.89 crore.
Out of the six vessels being procured,
four would replace the existing ageing offshore patrol vessels and the other
two would augment the Coast Guard’s fleet.
“The acquisition of these major ICG
platforms is aimed to boost the ICG’s capability and reinforces the increased
focus of the Government towards maritime security,” the ministry said in a
statement.
“These modern and high-tech ships will
play a critical role in enhancing surveillance, law enforcement, search and
rescue, maritime pollution response, and other important capabilities including
humanitarian assistance,” it said.
It said along with several high-tech
advanced features and equipment, these offshore patrol vessels would be
equipped with multipurpose drones, AI (artificial intelligence) capabilities,
and wirelessly controlled remote water rescue craft lifebuoy, enabling greater
flexibility and operational edge.
PTI
