GSL achieves new milestone with 3 vessels on move today

Panaji, Apr 28 (UNI) Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL) has commissioned an advanced off-shore patrol vessel (AOPV), ICGS Subhadra Kumari Chauhan and launched an extra fast patrol vessel (XFPV) besides and another AOPV today.

All three vessels are meant for strengthening the Indian Coast Guard in maritime patrolling, checking piracy and terrorism and protecting the exclusive economoc zone besides engaging in search and rescue operations.

Fifty metre long and 266 tonne heavy ICGS Chauhan, considered to be the fastest vessel with 35 knots speed ever built by any shipyard in the country, has a unique feature of waterjet propulsion.

Apart from meeting its designated duties, it can support Navy during wartime as a coastal convey escort and a communication link.

It has a minimum endurance of 1,500 nautical miles and is fitted with a 30 mm gun, two 12.7 mm machine guns along with highly advanced navigation and communication equippment.

The vessel is powered by 2,720 Kilo Watt MTU diesel engine which drives three independent waterjets for hot pursuit and capture operations of high speed manouverability. Its hull can withstand sea conditions. It was launched on December 30 last.

The XFPV ICGS Savithri Bhai Phule, fifth in its series built by the GSL, named after noted social reformer of 1850-75, has features similar to OCGS SK Chauhan.

The 105 metre long AOPV ICGS Sankalp is the first in its series and can stage ALH helicopters with helo traversing facility and sea boats. It has 6,500 nautical miles range and can move with a speed of 23.5 knots. It is considered the biggest ever built for the Indian Coast Guard.

Powered by two 8,100 Kilo Watt engines, the vessel is claimed to be ideal for patrolling and policing the maritime borders and long range search and rescue operations.

Top officials of the Indian Navy including Rear Admiral S M Vadgaokar, FOCGA and Coast Guard Director General Dr P Paleri besides the GSL were present at the occasion.

The ICGC SK Chauhan was commissioned by Ms Susheela Paleri, wife of Director General of Indian Coast Guard Dr P Paleri.

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