Keel-Laying Ceremony for New Indian Coast Guard Training Ship at Mazagon Dock

The keel-laying ceremony for a new training ship (Yard 16101) for the Indian Coast Guard took place at Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd (MDL) in Mumbai. This ship, equipped with specialized facilities like a training bridge, chart house, and dedicated classrooms, aims to provide a high-quality learning experience at sea. The vessel, measuring 107 meters in length and capable of reaching speeds of up to 20 knots, will also feature advanced technological systems such as AI-based predictive maintenance and a multipurpose drone.

The ship will play a crucial role in training 70 under-trainee officers, including women officers, after their basic training onshore. The construction of the ship, which was contracted in October 2023, is being carried out indigenously by MDL under the Buy (Indian-IDDM) category. This aligns with the government’s vision of self-reliance in defense production and signifies India’s commitment to strengthening its strategic autonomy.

The project highlights India’s dedication to self-reliance in defense production and will enhance the nation’s operational capabilities. It represents a significant milestone in the Indian Coast Guard’s efforts to improve training standards for its officers, reinforcing their role in safeguarding the country’s maritime interests. The keel-laying ceremony was attended by Deputy Director General H.K. Sharma and other senior officials from the ICG and MDL, underscoring the importance of this initiative in advancing India’s maritime ambitions.

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