MCGS Barracuda Set to Return to GRSE in Kolkata for Major Refurbishment
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Synopsis
The MCGS Barracuda is returning to Kolkata for a major refit with GRSE. This marks a significant milestone for maritime collaboration between India and Mauritius.
Key Takeaways
- MCGS Barracuda returning to Kolkata for refit.
- Refit contract signed with Government of Mauritius.
- Significant milestone for Indian shipbuilding.
- GRSE aims to attract global refit projects.
- Part of India's strategy to enhance maritime security.
Kolkata, Feb 20 (NationPress) The Mauritius Coast Guard Ship (MCGS) Barracuda is set to journey back to her birthplace in Kolkata for a significant refit. Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) Ltd has formalized a contract with the Government of Mauritius for this undertaking.
The MCGS Barracuda is classified as an Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV) crafted by GRSE. She was officially commissioned at Port Louis on March 12, 2015, in a ceremony attended by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Mauritian Prime Minister Anerood Jugnauth. This commissioning marked a significant milestone for Mauritius' National Day, celebrated annually on this date.
According to a senior GRSE representative, "The MCGS Barracuda was the inaugural export warship constructed and delivered by an Indian shipyard. Following this, GRSE successfully built and delivered the CGS PS Zoroaster to the National Coast Guard of Seychelles. The commissioning of this Fast Patrol Vessel occurred in 2021. Notably, the CGS PS Zoroaster returned to GRSE for refits, which were completed a month earlier than planned on May 25, 2024. This accomplishment garnered GRSE recognition from both the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, and the National Coast Guard of Seychelles."
He further mentioned that this early completion is part of GRSE's new 'Refit Project', aimed at positioning GRSE as a premier destination for extensive refits and ship repairs along India's eastern coastline. The initiative intends to attract not only warships but also commercial vessels to utilize its modern facilities in Kolkata.
This initiative is a vital element of the Union government's strategy to enhance maritime security and assist strategic island nations within the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). Currently, GRSE is engaged in the construction of 40 platforms, which includes 17 warships for the Indian Navy, along with eight export orders, as stated by the official.
