India Starts Building First AI-Equipped Patrol Vessel to Counter Maritime Threats

NGOPV is India’s AI-equipped patrol vessel, with predictive maintenance, drones, and advanced systems for maritime security.

India has kicked off construction of its first AI-equipped patrol vessel, built to protect maritime borders and support multi-role missions across its exclusive economic zone.

Known as Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessel (NGOPV), the boat will measure 384 feet (117 meters) long, displace around 2,700 tons, and carry up to 121 personnel.

With a top speed of 23 knots (43 kilometers/26 miles per hour) and a range of 5,000 nautical miles (9,260 kilometers/5,754 miles), the vessel can support rapid response and extended patrols in contested waters.

At the heart of the ship is an AI-based maintenance “brain” that spots faults early, minimizing downtime and extending mission endurance.

It is also fitted with remote-piloted drones, integrated bridge system, and a platform management system, all working together to streamline operations and enable faster, smarter decisions at sea.

Designed for versatility, the NGOPV will support missions ranging from surveillance and search and rescue to anti-piracy and pollution control.

All-Indian

The NGOPV program, launched under a December 2023 contract, aims to modernize the Indian Coast Guard with more capable, domestically built platforms.

India laid the keel for the first vessel on July 22 at a Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders facility in Mumbai.

Classified under the Buy (Indian IDDM) category, a designation in India’s defense procurement rules, the vessel must be fully designed and manufactured in India, aligning with the country’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat (Make in India) initiative.

Five additional boats will be built and delivered in stages as part of the program.