Visakhapatnam. Indian Coast Guard Ship Veera, the third in the series of 98 metre Offshore Patrol
Vessels (OPVs), was commissioned at Visakhapatnam by Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Bipin Rawat, PVSM, UYSM,
AVSM, YSM, SM, VSM, ADC, on April 15.
It was commissioned in the presence of Rajendra Singh, PTM, TM, Director General, Indian Coast Guard and senior dignitaries of the central and state government.
“Veera” meaning “Audacious Brave
Courageous” is a projection of Indian Coast Guard’s will and commitment ‘To Serve and
Protect’ the maritime interest of the nation.
This 98 metres OPV has been designed and built indigenously by
Larsen & Toubro Ltd (shipbuilding arm) and is fitted with advanced technology navigation
and communication equipment, sensor and machinery. The vessel is fitted with a 30mm Naval gun and will be fitted with 12.7mm Gun with FCS.
The ship is also equipped with an
Integrated Bridge System (IBS), Integrated Platform Management System (IPMS),
Automated Power Management System (APMS) and High Power External Fire Fighting (EFF)
system.
The ship is designed to carry one twin engine helicopter and four high speed boats including two inflatable boats for boarding operation, Search and Rescue, Law Enforcement and Maritime Patrol. The ship is also capable of carrying limited pollution response
equipment to contain oil spill at sea.
The ship displaces approx 2200 tonnes (GRT) and is propelled by two 9100 KW diesel engines to attain a maximum speed of 26 knots. The ship has an endurance of 5000 Nm at economical speed. The sustenance and reach, coupled with the latest and modern
equipment and system, provides her the capability to perform the role of a command platform and undertake tasks to fulfill the Coast Guard charter.
The ship, on joining the Coast Guard fleet will be based at Vizag. She will be deployed extensively for EEZ surveillance and other duties as enshrined in the Coast Guard charter.
ICGS Veera is commanded by Commandant Girish Datt Raturi and manned by 12 officers and 94 men.
The commissioning of ICGS Veera will enhance the Indian Coast Guard’s operational
capability to discharge the multifarious maritime tasks. The induction of this Patrol Vessel
will give a fillip to the maritime protection of our vast coastline of Eastern Seaboard.
