The Indian Coast Guard Ship Samarth, the first in the series of six offshore patrol vessels (OPVs) was commissioned at Goa by Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar on November 10, in the presence of Vice Admiral H.C.S. Bisht, Director General, Indian Coast Guard, CMD Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL) Rear Admiral Shekhar Mittal (Retd) and other senior dignitaries of the Central and state government. ‘Samarth’ meaning ‘Capable’ is a projection of Indian Coast Guard’s will and commitment ‘to serve and protect’ the maritime interest of the nation.

This 105-metre OPV has been designed and built indigenously by GSL and is fitted with most advanced state-of-the-art technology, navigation and communication equipment, sensors and machinery. The features include an integrated bridge system (IBS), integrated machinery control system (IMCS), power management system (PMS) and high power external firefighting system. The ship is designed to carry one twin-engine light helicopter and five high speed boats including two QRIB’s for fast boarding operations, search and rescue, law enforcement and maritime patrol. The ship is also capable of carrying pollution response equipment to contain oil spill at sea.

The ship, on joining the fleet, will be based at Goa. She will be deployed extensively for EEZ surveillance and other duties as enshrined in the Coast Guard Charter. The vessel will be exploited extensively on the Western Seaboard, to safeguard the maritime interests of India. Presently, Indian Coast Guard has a fleet of 117 ships.

ICGS Samarth will be manned by a complement of 14 officers and 98 men and commanded by Deputy Inspector General Rakesh Pal, TM under the overall command and control of Commander Coast Guard Region (West).