The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) ship “Sajag” was commissioned by National Security Advisor Ajit Doval on May 29. What’s special about the ship? Let’s find out.
The ICG, established in February 1977 and operating under the Ministry of Defence, is a maritime law enforcement and search and rescue agency of India with jurisdiction over its territorial waters.
Offshore patrol vessel
The ICGS Sajag is an offshore patrol vessel (OPV) that has been indigenously designed and built by the Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL) under the “Make in India” policy. Fitted with modern equipment and highly sophisticated navigation and computerised control systems, the ship, 105 metres long, is one of the most advanced patrol vessels. Sajag is the third in the series of five OPVS being indigenously built by the GSL- the other four are ICG ships Sachet, Sujeet, Sarthak, and Saksham. Offshore patrol vessels are surface ships capable of coastal and offshore patrolling. and policing anti-smuggling and anti-piracy operations with limited wartime roles. The recently commissioned ICGS has been aptly named “Sajag” meaning ‘vigilant”, which highlights the Indian Coast Guard’s commitment towards protecting the country’s maritime interests.
Main armaments
According to the ICG, the state-of-the-art ship is fitted with a 40/60 Bofors gun and two 12.7-mm SRCG (Stabilised Remote Controlled Gun) with FCS (Fire Control System). The ship is also equipped with an Integrated Bridge System. Integrated Platform Management System, Power Management System, and High Power External firefighting system.
It is designed to carry a helicopter and four high-speed boats, including two inflatable ones for boarding operation, search and rescue, law enforcement, and maritime patrolling. The ship is also capable of carrying pollution response equipment to contain oil spills at sea.
The ICGS Sajag will be based at Porbandar and deployed extensively for EEZ (Exclusive Economic Zone) surveillance and other duties. The ship will be commanded by Deputy Inspector General Sanjay Negi.
The induction of Sajag into service is expected to enhance the ICG’s operational capability in ensuring maritime protection of the vast coastline on the Western seafront. At present, the ICG has a fleet of 157 ships and 62 aircraft.
Picture Credit : Google
