Indian Offshore Patrol Vessel-6 “VAJRA” launched to enhance coastal security.

VAJRA, the sixth coast guard Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV-6) was launched in Chennai on February 27, 2020, to enhance coastal security. The Minister of State for Shipping, Mansukh Mandaviya was the Chief Guest of the launch ceremony.

Indian Coast Guard offshore patrol vessel 'Vajra' during the launch ceremony at the Larsen & Toubro shipyard (Picture source: Government of India Ministry of Shipping)

The vessel is sixth in the series of seven offshore patrol vessel projects being designed and developed by Larsen and Toubro Shipbuilding under the union government’s ‘Make in India’ policy.

The ship will be used mainly for day and night patrolling and surveillance along with anti-terrorism and anti-smuggling operations in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). It will also be deployed to maintain coastal security.

The offshore patrol vessel is fitted with the latest machinery, equipment and navigation systems. It will have two Navigation Radars with ultra-modern technology and advance navigational and communication systems.

It will also be fitted with CRN-91 and 12.7 mm guns and have an integral twin-engine helicopter, which will enhance its operational, surveillance, search and rescue capability.

Overall, the vessel is 98m in length and 15m in width with a gross weight of 2,100 tonnes. It is equipped with two diesel-driven engines and can hit a maximum speed of 26 knots.

The vessel would be utilised for day and night surveillance along with anti-terrorist, anti-smuggling operations in the exclusive economic zone. It has two navigation radars with ultra-modern technology, sophisticated navigational and latest communication systems. The ship would be manned by 121 personnel.