In a major step towards enhancing maritime security, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) started production of 20 new ships on Thursday. Mazagon Dock Shipyard Limited (MDL) has commenced construction of 14 Fast Patrol Vessels (FPV) and 6 Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessels (NGOPV) in Mumbai.
A formal board-cutting ceremony marks the start of production.
The state-of-the-art ships, which are project costing Rs 2,684 crore, will be equipped with cutting-edge technologies including drones, artificial intelligence (AI) systems, integrated bridge systems (IBS) and integrated machinery control systems (IMCS).
The ships will be built and delivered over the next few years, marking a transformative period for India’s maritime defences. These advanced FPV and NGOPV are expected to ensure rapid response to threats and enhance coastal security.