New Delhi/Goa | In a major boost to India’s maritime security architecture, Goa Shipyard Limited has delivered the Indian Navy’s first Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessel (NGOPV) named ‘Shachi’, marking the beginning of a new class of advanced surveillance and patrol ships designed for multi-role naval operations.
The vessel, also designated Yard 1280, is the first of a planned series of 11 NGOPVs being constructed simultaneously at Goa Shipyard Limited and Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata.
A Key Step in Indigenous Naval Modernisation
Vice Admiral Tarun Sobti, Deputy Chief of Naval Staff, described the launch as a historic milestone, stating that the new class of ships will significantly enhance India’s maritime reach and operational readiness in the Indian Ocean Region and beyond.
He highlighted that the project reflects years of planning, design, and engineering effort, reinforcing India’s growing capability in indigenous warship construction under the “Make in India” initiative.
Multi-Role Capability for Modern Naval Missions
The NGOPV class is designed for a wide range of missions, including maritime surveillance, coastal patrol, and response to suspicious activity at sea. The vessels will also play a crucial role in search and rescue operations and protection of offshore assets such as oil rigs.
Additionally, these ships are equipped for Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) missions, enabling them to deliver aid and support evacuation efforts during natural disasters.
Advanced Design and Technology
‘Shachi’ represents a significant technological upgrade over existing offshore patrol vessels. It is equipped with advanced radar and sensor systems for extended surveillance capabilities, along with modern communication and operational systems.
The vessel also features a helicopter deck and hangar, allowing airborne operations when required. Designed for extended endurance, the ship can operate in both coastal waters and deep-sea environments for prolonged durations.
A key highlight of the project is its strong indigenous content, with significant use of locally developed technology and materials, reflecting India’s push for self-reliance in defence manufacturing.
11-Ship Programme Across Two Shipyards
The NGOPV programme includes the construction of 11 vessels, being built in parallel at Goa and Kolkata to ensure faster delivery timelines and enhanced operational availability for the Navy.
Officials stated that the dual-shipyard model will accelerate production and help the Navy quickly strengthen its offshore surveillance and patrol capabilities.
Strengthening India’s Maritime Presence
The Indian Navy emphasized that the induction of next-generation offshore patrol vessels is critical in addressing emerging maritime security challenges, especially in a rapidly evolving geopolitical environment in the Indian Ocean Region.
Vice Admiral Sobti noted that the Navy’s role in shaping regional maritime security is expanding, and modern platforms like ‘Shachi’ are essential to maintain operational superiority and strategic balance.
Towards Multi-Domain Naval Operations
The NGOPV class is also designed to support multi-domain operations, enabling the Navy to execute diverse missions across surveillance, security, and rapid response roles within a single platform framework.
With the induction of ‘Shachi’, the Indian Navy has taken another significant step toward building a more agile, technology-driven, and self-reliant maritime force.
