INS 'Baratang' commissioned by Union Minister

Visakhapatnam, Sep 12 (UNI) Union Minister of state for Defence M M Pallamraju commissioned 'INS 'Baratang', the fourth ship in the Bangaram class of fast attack craft in the Indian Navy here today.

Speaking after the commissioning, Mr Pallamraju said the fast attack crafts used for patrolling coastal waters, search and rescue operations for missing fishermen in the Bay of Bengal and surveillance and raid interceptions along the coast.

He said the ship was built with the most modern, sophisticated navigational, communication equipment and a close range anti-surface gun.

'Baratang' has been desinged by the Indian Navy's directorate and built by M/S Garden Reach Ship - builders and Engineers from Kolkata. The ship was 46 metres in length, 7.5 metres in breadth.

It has two MTU engines capable of producing speeds in excess of 28 knots for extended durations.

He said the navy was the best indicator of the country's progress and strength. It was heartening to observe that Garden Reach Shibuilders and Engineers (GRSE), along with other shiyard and indigenious industry have risen to the challenge and produced quality warships, with the ongoing indigenous efforts, he added.

He also said the President's fleet review here in February, 2006 showcased the Indian Navy's might to all. It presented to the World a modern, versatile and powerful navy, while gracefully expanding and building bridges of friendhsip, he added.

He said the ship would be deployed in the Palk Straits. These vessels have been built at competitive price of about Rs 50 crore per ship.

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