Goa CM launches FPV built for Mauritius Coast Guard

Panaji: In a new chapter in Indo-Mauritian Defence co-operation, Goa government launched a Fast Patrol Vessel (FPV), 'MCGS Victory', designed and built in-house by Goa Shipyard Limited for Mauritius Coast Guard.

Chief Minister Laxmikant Parsekar, while addressing a gathering at the launch here on Monday, lauded the work being done in the shipyard.

He said the awarding of Rs 32,000 crores MCMV (Mine Counter-Measures Vessel, also called as mine-sweepers) project is set to minimise the impact of mining restrictions, and will boost the state's economy by creating more job opportunities for the locals and setting up ancillary units.

Parsekar also complimented GSL's work force for their skills and positive attitude.

On the occasion, Mauritius High Commissioner J Goburdhan highlighted the important role of the vessels, being built at GSL, in safeguarding their vast maritime zone.

He said that based on the high professional capability and track record of GSL, the Mauritius government is confident of getting these high-quality ships within contractual delivery time.

GSL's Chairman and Managing Director Rear Admiral (Retd) Shekhar Mital said, "Contract of the vessel was signed on May 17, 2014, while the keel of the vessel was laid on Dec 18, 2014."

Launching of first of the series vessel within 14 months of keel laying is a record in itself, he said.

He assured that the vessel, as per the track record of GSL, will be delivered ahead of the contractual schedule of September 2016.

"This vessel is primarily designed for coastal patrolling, anti-piracy, anti-smuggling and anti-drug surveillance, anti-poaching, and search and rescue operations," he said.

The vessel is fitted with 30 mm CRN-91 gun, 12.7 mm heavy machine guns and 7.62 mm medium machine guns, besides state-of-the-art navigation and communication equipment. It is capable of achieving a high speed of 35 knots, as per a GSL release.

GSL is the largest exporter of ships from Indian sub-continent and is presently executing export orders worth Rs 1,200 crore, the CMD said.

Vasco MLA Carlos Almeida was also present among other prominent dignitaries, at the launch.