Indian Navy helps in maintenance of Maldives, Mauritius Coast Guard vessels

In an era where naval diplomacy shapes international relations, the Indian Navy is playing a key role by extending its expertise in ship maintenance to neighbouring countries. 

The maintenance and repair of Maldivian Coast Guard (MCGS) CGS Huravee and Mauritius Coast Guard vessel, MCGS Valiant is being undertaken at the request of their respective governments by the Indian Navy. These refits are conducted at no cost to the host countries, which shows India's commitment to regional security cooperation.

Originally commissioned by India in 2016, Maldivian Coast Guard (MCGS) CGS Huravee was ceremonially handed over to the Maldives in 2023.

Its refit is currently underway at the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai and focuses on critical repairs and upgrades to enhance its operational capabilities. The decision to refit the Maldives vessel was taken during the state visit of Maldives President Muizzu in October to India.

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A statement from the Indian High Commission in the Maldives said, "The refit of CGS Huravee would be undertaken at an approximate cost of over $4 million, which would be borne by the government of India... It reflects deep-rooted friendly ties and multi-faceted defence cooperation between our 2 countries".

Mauritius Coast Guard vessel MCGS Valiant, constructed by Goa Shipyard Ltd for the Mauritius Coast Guard in 2017, is now in Visakhapatnam for its scheduled four-month refit, aimed at ensuring its readiness for patrolling, anti-piracy, and search and rescue missions.

The Indian Navy's engagement doesn't end at maintenance. In a broader outreach, it has also provided maritime assets to countries in need. Earlier this month, India gifted two Fast Interceptor Crafts (FICs) to Mozambique in East Africa.

The FICs were delivered via the Indian Navy ship INS Gharial and were formally handed over to the Mozambique government by the Indian High Commissioner to the country, Robert Shetkintong.

These Fast Interceptor Craft will significantly aid Mozambique in its efforts to combat maritime terrorism and ongoing insurgency in

Cabo Delgado province. Earlier, to bolster the efforts of the Mozambique government for maritime security, the Indian government had gifted two large interceptor boats in 2019, followed by two FICs of the same class in Jan 2022.

The engagement doesn't end at maintenance but also includes providing maritime assets to countries that require them. Last year, the Indian Navy vessel INS Kripan was transferred to the Vietnam Navy as both countries firmed up defence ties. It was the first time that an active warship was given by India to a friendly country as part of naval cooperation. 

This "Womb to Tomb" support by the Indian Navy is part of the Indian government's "Neighbourhood First" policy and its vision for "Security And Growth for All in the Region" (SAGAR).