In a significant boost to India’s indigenous shipbuilding and maritime security capabilities, Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL) launched INS Shachi, a Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessel (NGOPV) for the Indian Navy, and delivered ICGS Achal to the Indian Coast Guard.
The development aligns with the Government’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India initiatives, strengthening India’s self-reliance in defence manufacturing and enhancing maritime operational capabilities.
Key Highlights
- Launch of INS Shachi (NGOPV – Yard 1280) and delivery of ICGS Achal (Yard 1274)
- NGOPV programme executed jointly by GSL and GRSE (Kolkata)
- The programme enhances operational flexibility and sustained maritime presence.
- Ships designed for multi-domain operations:
- Defence and surveillance
- Search and rescue (SAR)
- Protection of offshore assets
- Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR)
- Anti-piracy operations
INS Shachi (Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessel)
INS Shachi is the first of 11 NGOPVs being built for the Indian Navy.
- Length: 113 metres
- Displacement: 2,600 tonnes
- Endurance: 8,500 nautical miles
- Crew: 19 officers + 130 sailors
- Indigenous content: ~76%
Key Features:
- Designed for long-range maritime patrol and multi-role operations
- Emphasis on indigenous systems and modern platform design
Naming Significance:
- “Shachi” (has mythological reference) means “one who renders assistance”
- Crest features Ursa Major constellation + lighthouse, symbolising vigilance and guidance
ICGS Achal (Fast Patrol Vessel)
ICGS Achal enhances the coastal security capabilities of the Indian Coast Guard.
- Length: 52 metres | Breadth: 8 metres
- Displacement: 320 tonnes
- Speed: Up to 27 knots
- Indigenous content: >60%
Key Features:
- Equipped with CPP-based propulsion system
- Built under dual certification:
- American Bureau of Shipping (ABS)
- Indian Register of Shipping (IRS)
Primary Roles:
- Coastal surveillance and monitoring
- Protection of offshore assets and island territories
- Maritime law enforcement and security
Programme Significance
The NGOPV and FPV programmes aim to:
- Strengthen India’s maritime security architecture
- Enhance indigenous defence manufacturing capabilities
- Support peacetime and contingency operations
- Reduce dependence on foreign shipbuilding
- Reflects India’s transition towards a self-reliant and modern naval force.