Breaking Down the Rs 1,614 Crore Contract: FAQs on India's NGOPV Acquisition
Breaking Down the Rs 1,614 Crore Contract: FAQs on India's NGOPV Acquisition
In a significant move towards bolstering India's maritime security, the Ministry of Defence recently inked a Rs 1,614 crore contract with Mazagon Dockyard Shipbuilders Ltd for the procurement of six next-generation offshore patrol vessels (NGOPVs) for the Indian Coast Guard (ICG). This acquisition marks a crucial step in the government's commitment to modernizing the Coast Guard and ensuring its preparedness to address emerging maritime challenges.
FAQs:
1. What is the significance of the recent contract signed by the Ministry of Defence?
The Ministry of Defence has signed a contract worth Rs 1,614.89 crore with Mazagon Dockyard Shipbuilders Ltd for the procurement of six NGOPVs. This contract is a crucial step towards enhancing the maritime security capabilities of the Indian Coast Guard.
2. What category does the contract fall under?
The contract is signed under the buy (Indian-IDDM) category, emphasizing the government's commitment to promoting indigenous defense manufacturing (IDDM) and self-reliance in the defense sector.
3. What is the purpose behind acquiring these NGOPVs?
The six NGOPVs are intended to replace existing aging offshore patrol vessels (four vessels) and augment the Coast Guard's fleet with an additional two vessels. This move aligns with the government's focus on strengthening maritime security.
4. What capabilities will the NGOPVs bring to the Indian Coast Guard?
The NGOPVs are expected to play a critical role in various maritime operations, including surveillance, law enforcement, search and rescue, maritime pollution response, and humanitarian assistance. Equipped with modern and high-tech capabilities, they aim to enhance the overall operational efficiency of the Coast Guard.
5. What advanced features will the offshore patrol vessels possess?
The NGOPVs will be equipped with multipurpose drones, artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities, and wirelessly controlled remote water rescue craft lifebuoy. These features are designed to provide greater flexibility and operational advantages in diverse maritime scenarios.
6. How will AI capabilities contribute to the operational edge of the Coast Guard?
The inclusion of AI capabilities in the NGOPVs is intended to provide the Coast Guard with a significant operational edge in maritime activities. These advanced technologies enhance decision-making processes and improve overall responsiveness in dynamic maritime environments.
7. What is the expected impact on India's maritime security posture?
The procurement of these NGOPVs reflects the government's commitment to modernizing the Indian Coast Guard, ensuring it is well-equipped to address evolving maritime challenges. The vessels are set to contribute significantly to strengthening India's overall maritime security posture.
8. How does this contract align with the government's focus on modernization?
The contract for NGOPVs is a tangible manifestation of the government's commitment to modernizing the Indian Coast Guard. It demonstrates a strategic approach to equip the Coast Guard with state-of-the-art technology to counter contemporary maritime threats.
9. When will the NGOPVs be built, and who will be responsible for their construction?
Mazagon Dockyard Shipbuilders Ltd will be responsible for building the six NGOPVs. The construction will proceed under the terms of the contract, with a focus on delivering vessels that meet the highest standards of quality and technological sophistication.
10. How will these NGOPVs contribute to India's overall defense strategy?
The NGOPVs, with their advanced features and enhanced capabilities, will play a crucial role in reinforcing India's defense strategy. By addressing gaps in maritime security and expanding the operational capabilities of the Coast Guard, these vessels contribute to a more robust and resilient defense infrastructure for the nation.
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