By Our Special Correspondent
Daijiworld Media Network - Vasco

Vasco, Mar 31: Indian Navy's the first ever of the new 105 meter class Naval offshore patrol vessel was launched on Monday, March 30 in the port town of Vasco.

Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Sureesh Mehta was the chief guest for the launch of the vessel which was christened as INS Saryu.

Measuring 105 meters in length, 12.90 meters in breadth and with a displacement of about 2215 tonnes, the vessel has a top speed of 25 knots.

Officials stated that the vessel is primarily aimed at meeting the increasing requirement of the Indian Navy for surveillance and accomplishing surface warfare operation in order to prevent infiltration and transgression of maritime sovereignty.

The officials said that NOVP is capable of the coastal and offshore patrolling thereby enhancing the swcurity of the nation.

This vessel is also used for ocean surveillance and monitoring of shipping line of controls, defence of offshore oil installation and other important offshore national assets, officials stated.

The naval officials added that the ship can also be deployed for escorting high value ships and fleet support operations.