ICGS 'Vigraha' commissioned into Indian Coast Guard

Context

In a significant development, the indigenously built 'Vigraha' ship was commissioned into the Indian Coast Guard (ICG).

About the Vessel

• The 98 meters offshore patrol vessel has been designed and built indigenously by Larsen & Toubro Ship Building Ltd.
• It is fitted with advanced technology Radars, Navigation and Communication Equipment, Sensor and Machinery capable of operating in tropical sea conditions. 
• The vessel is armed with a 40/60 Bofors gun and fitted with two 12.7 mm Stabilised Remote Control Gun (SRCG) with Fire Control System.
• The ship is also equipped with- 
• Integrated Bridge System (IBS)
• Integrated Platform Management System (IPMS)
• Automated Power Management System (APMS) 
• High-Power External Firefighting (EFF) system
• The ship is designed to carry one Twin Engine Helicopter and four high-speed 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 spills at sea. 

Where will it operate?

• The ship will be based in Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh.
• It will operate on the eastern seaboard under the operational and administrative control of the Commander, Coast Guard Region (East).