Kolkata, Nov 11 (IANS) Indian Coast Guard Ship (ICGS) Varaha, currently on an overseas deployment, handed over critical spare parts for the Mozambique Navy’s fast interceptor vessels, Namiliti and Umbeluzi, during a formal ceremony held on board the ship.
Highlighting the strategic significance of the handover, the Indian Coast Guard stated: “This initiative reflects India’s commitment to maritime capacity building and a secure, stable and cooperative Indian Ocean Region, guided by the vision of Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR) and Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions (MAHASAGAR).”
India gifted the 30-metre-long fast interceptor craft Namiliti and Umbeluzi to Mozambique in July 2019 as part of bilateral defence cooperation and regional maritime security initiatives.
Built by Larsen & Toubro at its Kattupalli shipyard, the 90-tonne aluminium-hulled vessels can reach 45 knots and have an operational range of 500 nautical miles. Powered by twin Caterpillar marine engines with waterjet propulsion systems, the boats are equipped with machine guns and bullet-resistant cabins, and are crewed by 12 personnel.
The Mozambican Navy utilises these interceptors for coastal surveillance, search and rescue, anti-smuggling, anti-poaching missions, and counter-terrorism operations in volatile areas such as Cabo Delgado.
Maintenance and operational support for the vessels are provided with assistance from a resident Indian Coast Guard Afloat Support Team stationed in Mozambique. Both the Indian Navy and Coast Guard regularly provide training, operational guidance, and technical maintenance support to Mozambican naval personnel, with several joint milestone ceremonies conducted in late 2026.
Defence relations between the two nations have strengthened continuously since 2011, when New Delhi affirmed its commitment to assist Mozambique with maritime security and anti-piracy efforts.
Indian naval ships previously provided humanitarian relief following Cyclone Idai in March 2019, while INS Kesari has executed multiple Mission SAGAR deployments, providing medical and humanitarian assistance to Mozambique alongside conducting shipboard training for Mozambican naval personnel.
–IANS
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