Defence Secretary lays keel of four Fast Patrol vessels for Indian Coast Guard at Goa Shipyard Limited

On August 25, 2023, Defence Secretary Shri Giridhar Aramane marked a significant step by laying the keel for four Coast Guard Fast Patrol vessels (FPVs) at Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL). During the event, the Defence Secretary praised Goa Shipyard’s accomplishment in reaching this milestone, particularly their impressive indigenous collaboration with the Indian industry. He underscored the need to nurture and advance the nation’s shipbuilding sector, which boasts a rich heritage. Pointing out Goa Shipyard’s notable achievements, he stressed the industry’s growing competitiveness and encouraged GSL to enhance efficiency and competitiveness to maintain a leading edge. The FPV, crafted by GSL, is a medium-range surface vessel equipped with weaponry. It boasts a length of 51.43 meters and a width of 8 meters. The ship is propelled by twin engines, allowing it to reach a top speed of 27 knots. With a displacement of around 320 tons, the vessel is well-equipped to navigate challenging sea conditions.

These vessels, constructed for the Indian Coast Guard, originate from GSL’s in-house design and incorporate the latest advancements in machinery and computerized control systems. This positioning them as cutting-edge Fast Patrol Vessels for the Indian Coast Guard. DGCG Rakesh Pal extended congratulations to the Chairman and Managing Director, as well as the staff of Goa Shipyard Limited, for their dedicated efforts. He emphasized GSL’s commitment to pursuing excellence and attaining higher objectives in the years ahead. In addition to the FPV keel-laying, the Defence Secretary inaugurated GSL’s Integrated Stores Complex. Present at the event were Director General of the Indian Coast Guard, Shri Prakash Pal, Chairman and Managing Director of GSL, Shri Brajesh Kumar Upadhyay, and other officials from the Indian Coast Guard.