Panjim, Goa | June 10, 2025 — Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL), one of India’s premier defence shipyards, marked a significant milestone with the keel laying of Yard 1283, the fourth vessel in the Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessel (NGOPV) series for the Indian Navy. This landmark event took place at the GSL campus and was presided over by Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, AVSM, VSM, Vice Chief of the Naval Staff.
The ceremony underscores the growing momentum of the Rs 6,200 crore NGOPV project, which involves the construction of seven technologically advanced patrol vessels—all designed and built in-house by GSL. These vessels are intended to enhance the Indian Navy’s operational readiness and maritime security footprint across the Indian Ocean Region.
The keel laying of Yard 1283 marks the official commencement of its physical construction and reaffirms India’s commitment to Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) in the defence manufacturing sector.
Each NGOPV is engineered to undertake a variety of missions, including long-range surveillance, maritime patrolling, anti-piracy operations, and protection of offshore assets. The vessels will also play a crucial role in humanitarian assistance, disaster relief, and maritime interdiction tasks.
Key Features of the NGOPVs:
- Length: 114 meters
- Beam: 14.6 meters
- Displacement: 2,700 tonnes
- Propulsion: Dual diesel engines with Controllable Pitch Propellers (CPP)
- Armament: Indigenous weapons and sensors, designed for multi-role maritime duties
- Crew Comfort: State-of-the-art accommodation and operational systems
Addressing the gathering, Vice Admiral Swaminathan highlighted the Navy’s focus on indigenisation and the strategic role GSL is playing in shaping India’s future-ready naval capabilities.
“This keel laying is not just a shipbuilding ritual—it’s a testament to the Indian Navy’s unwavering focus on operational self-reliance. GSL has consistently demonstrated excellence in execution, delivering critical platforms under challenging timelines,” said the Vice Admiral.
He praised the efforts of the Ministry of Defence, the Indian Navy, and private and public sector entities in strengthening India’s domestic shipbuilding ecosystem.
Mr. Brajesh Kumar Upadhyay, Chairman and Managing Director of Goa Shipyard Ltd., expressed pride in the shipyard’s growing contribution to national security.
“Yard 1283 reflects our team’s precision, passion, and purpose. These strategic orders highlight the level of trust placed in GSL by the Indian Navy, and we remain firmly committed to delivering vessels of world-class standards with high indigenous content,” said Mr. Upadhyay.
He also pointed out that GSL’s continuous investments in infrastructure, technology, and human capital are driving it toward becoming a global name in defence shipbuilding.
The NGOPV project is not just about ships—it’s about creating an ecosystem of design, engineering, and production excellence rooted in Indian capabilities. Each milestone, including the keel laying of Yard 1283, brings India closer to its vision of maritime self-sufficiency and strategic autonomy.
As the Indian Navy continues to expand and modernize, GSL remains a cornerstone in its journey—building platforms that are not only technically advanced but also symbolize national pride.
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