Coast Guard commissions vessel for Gulf of Kutch surveillance

The Indian Coast Guard commissioned a C-403 ship at Mundra today to step up close-to-coast surveillance in Gujarat, it was announced here today.
Indian Coast Guard Ship C-403, the third in a series of 36 interceptor boats, designed and built by Larsen & Touobro, Surat, was commissioned at Mundra today by Gujarat Revenue Minister Anandiben Patel, an official statement said.
The 30-metre long interceptor ship with 90 tonnes displacement can attain a maximum speed of 45 knots per hour.
"The vessel is fitted with state-of-the-art navigation and communication equipment, besides medium range armaments," Indian Coast Guard DIG S S Dasila said.

"It is designed for high-speed interception, close-to-coast patrol, low-intensity maritime operations, besides search and rescue as well as maritime surveillance," he said.
"Commissioning of the C-403 vessel will strengthen the security umbrella over the Gulf of Kutch (GoK). The C-403 will also help enhance patrolling in GoK and prevent infiltration, smuggling and illegal fishing," the statement said.
The vessel was commissioned in the presence of Inspector General Kuldip Singh Sheoran who is Commander Coast Guard Region (North-West) as well as guests from state and central agencies.
The induction is part of ongoing efforts by the Coast Guard to strengthen coastal security along Gujarat's coastline.