The Navy inducted four new Immediate Support Vessels (ISVs) on Friday, strengthening the coastal security. The vessels were commissioned by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.
“The ISVs are armed with Heavy Machine Guns (HMGs) and are fitted with state of the art radar and navigational equipment. These versatile ships are capable of conducting patrolling operations and high speed interceptions at sea using speeds in excess of 40 knots, and are deployed for security of Offshore Development Areas (ODA) and coastal maritime assets,” a press release by the agency read.
“The induction and deployment of these ships will augment the ongoing efforts to bolster coastal security; and provide protection to our offshore assets from asymmetric threats,” it added.
Of the 14 vessels inducted so far, 11 have been designed and constructed by M/s SHM Shipcare, Mumbai and 3by Abu Dhabi Ship Builder thus proving as an apt example of the “Make in India ‘ initiative proposed by the BJP government.
“The commissioning of these Immediate Support Vessels will enhance the capacity of the Indian Navy to provide better security. This commissioning ceremony also showcases the ship building capabilities of the country following Prime Minister’s call of ‘Make in India’,” Mr. Fadnavis said.