“Indian Coast Guard Ship Vajra” commissioned

What is the News?

Indian Coast Guard ship ’Vajra’ commissioned formally into service. It is the 6th offshore patrol vessel to enhance coastal security.

About ICGS Vajra:

• Larsen and Toubro Shipbuilding Ltd  has indigenously designed and built the Indian Coast Guard Ship Vessel “Vajra”.
• Moreover, ICGS Vajra is the sixth in the series of seven Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs).

Key Features of ICGS Vajra:

• Firstly, it is a 98-meter ship equipped with state-of-the-art facilities. It is designed to carry one twin-engine helicopter and four high-speed boats.
• Secondly, the vessel can also be used in Search and Rescue, Law Enforcement, and Maritime Patrol.
• Thirdly, the vessel is also capable of carrying Pollution Response Equipment for oil spill response at Sea.

What are Offshore Patrol Vehicles(OPVs)?

• Offshore Patrol Vehicles(OPVs) are long-range surface ships. They are capable of operation in maritime zones of India including island territories with helicopter operation capabilities.
• Further, their roles include coastal and offshore patrolling, policing maritime zones of India, control and surveillance, anti-smuggling and anti-piracy operations with limited wartime roles.

About Vikram Class offshore patrol vessel(OPV)

• Vikram Class offshore patrol vessel (OPV) is a series of seven offshore patrol vessels (OPV). L&T Shipbuilding for the Indian Coast Guard(ICG) is building them.
• The seven OPVs are: 1) ICGS Vikram 2) ICGS Vijaya 3) ICGS Veera 4) ICGS Varaha 5) ICGS Varad 6) ICGS Vajra and 7) ICGS Vigraha.

Source: AIR