Prelims: Current events of national and international importance | Defence
Why in News?
The keel-laying ceremony of the first Next Generation Missile Vessel (NGMV) for the Indian Navy was held at Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL).

- Role – The NGMV is primarily designed to function as a high-speed missile combatant.
- Offensive role – The vessel is capable of conducting the following operations:
- Maritime Strike Operations
- Anti-Surface Warfare (ASuW)
- Potential targets include:
- Enemy warships
- Merchant vessels
- Land targets
- Sea-denial operations – These operations are particularly effective in the vicinity of maritime choke points.
- Defensive role
- Local naval defense
- Seaward defense of Offshore Development Areas (ODAs)
Weapon system & Sensors
- BrahMos – Surface-to-Surface Missile (SSM)
- It enables the vessel to engage targets at long range, offering both anti-ship and land-attack capabilities.
- NGMV models are equipped with inclined BrahMos missile launchers.
- VLSRSAM – Vertically Launched Short Range Surface-to-Air Missile
- Delivers air and missile defense capabilities.
- Designed to intercept and neutralize incoming aerial threats.
- 76 mm SRGM
- Serves as the primary naval gun system.
- Positioned on the forward section of the vessel.
- CIWS – Close-In Weapon System
- Offers short-range defense against incoming projectiles and threats.
- The NGMV model features a CIWS mounted at the stern.
- Multi-Function Radar
- Performs air surveillance operations.
- Supports fire-control functions.
- X-band radar.
- Approximate range - 200 km.
Indigenous Defence Ecosystem
- The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) developed the Multi-Function Radar (MFR).
- Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) supplies the Multi-Function Radar (MFR).
- Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) assembles LM2500 gas turbines.
- Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) designs and constructs vessels.
INS Vikrant, India’s first indigenous aircraft carrier, was built by Cochin Shipyard Limited.
Reference
The Hindu | Next Generation Missile Vessel (NGMV)