Offshore patrol vessel ‘Sanghmitra’ launched at GRSE Kolkata

Why in News?

The Indian Navy recently launched ‘Sanghmitra’, a Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessel (NGOPV), at Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE) in Kolkata as part of its indigenous shipbuilding programme.

What is Sanghmitra?

‘Sanghmitra’ is an indigenously designed and built offshore patrol vessel developed for the Indian Navy to strengthen maritime security and operational capabilities.

Key Features

• Sanghmitra is part of the Indian Navy’s programme to build 11 Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessels at Goa Shipyard Limited and GRSE.
• The vessel is designed for multiple operations such as maritime surveillance, coastal defence, search and rescue, anti-piracy missions, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR), and protection of offshore assets.
• The ship has been named after Sanghamitra, daughter of Emperor Ashoka, reflecting India’s cultural heritage.
• The ship’s crest includes the constellation Ursa Major and a red-and-white lighthouse motif symbolising vigilance and guidance.

Source: DD