Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd (MDL), a Navratna Defence Public Sector Undertaking (PSU), has initiated production activities for two major projects – the first of 14 Fast Patrol Vessels (FPVs) and the first of six Next-Generation Offshore Patrol Vessels (NGOPVs) for the Indian Coast Guard (ICG). The Plate Cutting ceremony took place on December 19 at MDL’s facility in Mumbai.
MDL was awarded a Rs 2,684 crore contract under the ‘Buy (Indian-IDDM)’ category to develop these cutting-edge vessels, which will incorporate advanced technologies such as drones for surveillance, artificial intelligence (AI) for decision-making, an Integrated Bridge System for enhanced manoeuvrability, and an Integrated Machinery Control System for operational efficiency, according to the Ministry of Defence (MoD).
These state-of-the-art vessels are being entirely indigenously designed, developed, and constructed, aligning with the Government of India’s ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative to boost self-reliance in defence production. Once commissioned, these vessels will significantly enhance the ICG’s operational capabilities, allowing it to meet increasing coastal security demands, secure maritime borders, conduct search and rescue missions, respond to emerging threats, and enforce maritime laws across India’s extensive maritime domain.
14 Fast Patrol Vessels (FPVs) Project
The FPV project, valued at Rs 1,070.47 crore, involves designing, constructing, and delivering 14 high-speed vessels equipped with advanced waterjet propulsion systems and high-speed diesel engines. Each vessel is engineered to achieve speeds exceeding 33 knots and will meet dual-class certification standards set by the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) and the Indian Register of Shipping (IRS).
Designed for versatile roles, these FPVs will bolster coastal patrolling and fisheries protection efforts. They will also feature small, high-speed boats for search and rescue operations in shallow waters. During wartime, these vessels can seamlessly transition to roles such as providing communication links, escorting convoys, offering logistical support, conducting medical evacuations, and supplementing Indian Navy operations.
The first FPV is slated for delivery in March 2026, marking a significant step forward in strengthening India’s coastal security infrastructure.
Six Next-Generation Offshore Patrol Vessels (NGOPVs) Project
MDL has also commenced plate-cutting for the first vessel under the NGOPV project, a six-vessel initiative valued at Rs 1,614.89 crore. These NGOPVs, designed under Class HSC (High-Speed Craft) rules, will feature twin controllable pitch propellers powered by 9,000 kW engines, enabling speeds exceeding 23 knots. The vessels will also be dual-class certified by ABS and IRS.
Their primary missions include coastal and offshore patrolling, fisheries protection, anti-smuggling, anti-piracy, ocean surveillance, and monitoring Sea Lines of Communication (SLOCs). Additionally, they are equipped to conduct search and rescue operations.
The first NGOPV is scheduled for delivery in July 2027, with the second following in December 2027.
By delivering these advanced vessels, MDL is contributing to the Indian Coast Guard’s modernization and ensuring the nation’s maritime security remains robust in the face of evolving challenges.
Team BharatShakti
