VASCO: Deputy Chief of Naval Staff Vice Admiral Tarun Sobti on Tuesday said that recent global developments reaffirm the need for a strong navy and, with rising strategic competition and conflicts, the Indian Navy continues to remain the prime manifestation of India’s maritime power.
Vice Admiral Sobti was addressing a gathering during the launch of the first Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessel (NGOPV) built by Goa Shipyard Limited, Vasco (South Goa), on Tuesday.
He said that India’s identity as a maritime nation is defined by its geography and history. With a vast coastline, numerous island territories in both the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal, and an Exclusive Economic Zone, the maritime domain is both a source of responsibility and opportunity.
Vice Admiral Sobti said that the seas around the country carry the lifeline of trade, energy, and connectivity. He added that safeguarding these interests requires a capable, responsive, and forward-looking navy. He further stated that the Indian Navy’s role in shaping the geopolitical environment in the Indian Ocean region and beyond continues to grow more prominent.
Referring to recent global developments, the Deputy Chief of the Indian Navy said that they reaffirm the need for a strong navy. He said that with rising strategic competition and conflicts, the Indian Navy continues to remain the prime manifestation of India’s maritime power and an important instrument for diplomacy and regional stability.
Vice Admiral Sobti said that as global powers endeavour to assert themselves in the Indian Ocean region, the Indian Navy must retain the stature of a preferred security partner against maritime threats and act as a first responder to ensure regional maritime security and prevent inimical forces from establishing their presence.
He said that the induction of platforms such as NGOPVs is an important step in ensuring preparedness to meet present and emerging challenges.
Speaking about the ship, Vice Admiral Sobti said that the launch of the lead ship of a new class of warship is indeed a landmark moment. He added that it represents the culmination of vision, exhaustive design, and dedicated efforts, and marks the beginning of a new chapter in maritime capability.
He stated that shipbuilding of this nature requires precision, coordination, and sustained commitment. He added that this is not merely a launch but the laying of a foundation for a new generation of platforms that will serve the Indian Navy in the years to come.
Others, including Brajesh Kumar Upadhyay, Chairman and Managing Director of Goa Shipyard Limited, also spoke on the occasion.
The ship is 113 metres long with a breadth of 14.6 metres and has a displacement of 2,600 tonnes. It has an endurance of 8,500 nautical miles. The vessel will be manned by a commanding officer along with a team of 19 officers and 130 sailors.
