India 

The keel-laying ceremony for India's first Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessel marks a milestone in the nation's drive for self-reliance in defense. These advanced ships will bolster maritime security, supporting anti-piracy efforts and coastal defense in the Indian Ocean Region.

The Indian Navy took a significant step forward in its quest for self-reliance with the keel-laying ceremony for the first Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessel (NGOPV), held at Goa Shipyard Ltd. This event marks a crucial milestone in India's 'Make in India' initiative, aimed at bolstering the nation's maritime security capabilities.

At the ceremony, Vice Admiral B Siva Kumar, Controller Warship Production & Acquisition, presided over the proceedings. Last year, the Ministry of Defence, along with Goa Shipyard Ltd (GSL) and Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE), inked a contract for the indigenous design and construction of 11 NGOPVs. GSL will lead the construction, making seven vessels, while GRSE will build the remaining four.

These advanced patrol vessels will serve vital roles in safeguarding India's economic and geopolitical interests in the Indian Ocean Region. Their main tasks will include anti-piracy operations, coastal defense and surveillance, search and rescue missions, and protection of critical offshore assets.

The Ministry of Defence highlighted that this endeavor is in line with the 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' vision, which promotes self-reliance in defense manufacturing. This initiative underscores India's commitment to enhancing its naval capabilities and emerging as a dominant maritime force.

The keel-laying ceremony of the first NGOPV underscores India's resolve to modernize its naval fleet. These domestically manufactured vessels will significantly enhance the Indian Navy's ability to patrol waters and safeguard the nation's extensive coastline.