Goa. 10 November, 2015. In the present security scenario, with increased threat from maritime terrorism, the induction of a sophisticated and state-of-the-art Offshore Patrol Vessel, will provide the desired fillip to the maritime protection of the Coastal State of Goa in particular and the Indian coast in general.
Indian Coast Guard Ship Samarth, the first in the series of six 105m Off Shore Patrol Vessels (OPVs) was commissioned at Goa by Indian Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar, in the presence of Vice Admiral HCSBisht AVSM, Director General Indian Coast Guard, CMD Goa Shipyard Limited RAdmShekhar Mittal (RETD) and other senior dignitaries of the Central and State Government. ‘Samarth’ meaning‘Capable’ is a projection of Indian Coast Guard’s will and commitment “To serve and protect” the maritime interest of the nation.
This 105m OPV has been designed and built indigenously by GSL and is fitted with most advanced state-of-the-art technology,navigation &communication equipment, sensors and machinery. The features include an Integrated Bridge System (IBS), Integrated Machinery Control System (IMCS), Power Management System (PMS) and High Power External Fire Fighting System. The ship is designed to carry one twin engine Light Helicopter and five high speed boats including two QRIB’s for fast boarding operations, Search and Rescue, Law Enforcement and Maritime Patrol. The ship is also capable of carrying pollution response equipment to contain oil spill at sea.
The ship draws2450 tons(GRT) propelled by two 9100 KW diesel engines to attain a maximum speed of 23 Knots and has an endurance of 6000nmateconomical speed.The sustenance and reach, coupled with the latest and modern equipment and systems, provides her the capability to perform the role of a Command platform and undertake tasks to fulfill the Coast Guard charter of duties.
The ship, on joining the Coast Guard Fleet will be based at Goa. She will be deployed extensively for EEZ surveillance and other duties as enshrined in the Coast Guard Charter. The vessel will be exploited extensively on the Western Seaboard, to safeguard the maritime interests of India. Presently, Indian Coast Guard has a Fleet of 117 Ships.Further 74 Ships are at various stages of construction at different Indian shipyards. The commissioning of this vessel and other platforms will add additional punch to the Indian Coast Guard which will emerge as a stronger and more potent force, to address the emerging security challenges in our maritime boundaries.
ICGS Samarth will be manned by a complement of 14 Officers and 98 men and commanded by Deputy Inspector General Rakesh Pal, TM under the overall command and control ofCommanderCoast Guard Region (West).
