4 of the six vessels being bought will change the Coast Guard’s ageing fleet of offshore patrol boats, whereas the remaining two will likely be added to it Picture Courtesy Companies
A contract for Rs 1,614 crore was inked by the defence ministry and Mazagon Dockyard Shipbuilders Ltd on Wednesday to buy six next-generation offshore patrol boats for the Indian Coast Guard.
In keeping with the ministry of defence, the aim of the procurement of the platforms is to extend the Coast Guard’s means to take care of maritime safety.
“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 stated in an announcement.
In keeping with the assertion, the deal was achieved for a complete price of Rs 1614.89 crore beneath the purchase (Indian-IDDM) class.
4 of the six vessels being bought will change the Coast Guard’s ageing fleet of offshore patrol boats, whereas the remaining two will likely be added to it.
“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’s assertion added.
“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 that along with numerous cutting-edge options and equipment, these offshore patrol boats may also be outfitted with multifunctional drones, synthetic intelligence (AI) instruments, and wirelessly managed distant sea rescue craft lifebuoys, offering them with elevated adaptability and a aggressive benefit.
(With company inputs)