New Delhi, July 29
Goa Shipyard Limited on Tuesday launched the fifth of eight Fast Patrol Vessels being built for the Indian Coast Guard. Named "ATAL", the vessel was ceremoniously launched by Shilpa Agarwal in the presence of Rozy Agarwal, IDAS, PIFA, and other dignitaries, according to a PRO statement from Indian Coast Guard.
In the glittering ceremony, the ship was named "ATAL". The launch ceremony was also attended by IG Sudhir Sahni, TM, DDG (M&M) and other senior officials from ICG.
Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Guest, Rozy Agarwal, IDAS, PIFA, CGHQ, in his address, brought out that these ships have been designed and constructed indigenously by Goa Shipyard Limited to meet the specific requirements of ICG. The ship has a length of 52m, a breadth of 8m and would displace 320T. The Shipyard has since made exceptional strides in achieving the milestone of launching.
These Advanced Fast Patrol vessels will assist the ICG in protecting offshore assets and island territories. Their primary role will be fisheries protection and monitoring around island territories, the exclusive economic zone and coastal patrol. Vessels shall also perform anti-smuggling, anti-piracy and search & rescue operations.
This Project contributes to the prosperity of the Nation by developing the local ecosystem and supporting the workforce or entrepreneurs/ MSMEs. The project has generated substantial employment for local industry and MSMEs engaged in production activities at various factories and within Goa Shipyard Limited.
Addressing the gathering on the occasion, the Chief Guest appreciated the efforts put in by the Indian Coast Guard and Goa Shipyard Ltd. in ensuring that all ship-building requirements are fulfilled indigenously. He also congratulated all on achieving this critical milestone to ensure that the march towards 'Atmanirbharta' in Defence Production is pursued in the right direction.
The launch of "ATAL" is an exemplary testimony of our nation's shipbuilding capability and Goa Shipyard's commitment to deliver indigenously designed state-of-the-art vessels for national security requirements.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Excellent news! But I hope these vessels are properly maintained unlike some other defense equipment we've seen rusting away. Maintenance is as important as production.
Great to see women officers like Shilpa Agarwal leading such important ceremonies. The ship looks impressive - hope it helps protect our fishermen who face so many threats at sea.
The employment generation aspect is crucial - defense manufacturing can be a game changer for local economies. More such projects needed across India!
While this is good news, I wish the article had more technical details about the vessel's capabilities. How does it compare to similar ships in other navies?
Atmanirbhar Bharat in action! 🚀 These vessels will be crucial for protecting our maritime borders, especially with increasing Chinese presence in Indian Ocean. Jai Hind!
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