INS Sunayna, the second of the NOPV (Naval Offshore Patrol Vessel) class of ships, was commissioned at Kochi on 15 Oct 13 by Vice Admiral SatishSoni, Flag Officer Commanding in Chief Southern Naval Command.
INS Sunayna, to be based under Southern Naval Command, was built at Goa Shipyard Limited, and will meet the increasing ocean surveillance and patrolling requirements of the Indian Navy. The warship is designed to undertake fleet support operations, coastal and offshore patrolling, ocean surveillance and monitoring of Sea Lines of Communications and offshore assets, and escort duties.
Speaking on the occasion, Vice Admiral Soni said that the shipbuilding process continues to be one of the most challenging tasks starting from design to integration of diverse equipment prior final setting to work and delivery of a seaworthy combat platform. The Admiral complimented Goa Shipyard Limited and all agencies who contributed to the building of INS Sunayna. He also reminded the audience that India’s location makes the country a pivot around which activities of the strategically important Indian Ocean would unfold. Platforms such as Sunayna would enable the Indian Navy to secure the national interests in the region.
Two KOEL/Pielstick Diesel engines propel INS Sunayna and enable it to achieve speeds in excess of 25 knots. The ship also has an automatic power management system installed by M/s Larsen and Toubro. She is fitted with the latest Navigation, Communication and Electronic Support Systems. The armament fit include one 76 mm Gun with an electro optic fire control system, Close in Weapon Systems (CIWS) and CHAFF launchers.
INS Sunayna can also carry a helicopter. Commander Aftab Ahmed Khan, the Commanding Officer of the ship, leads a crew of 8 officers and 108 sailors who are accommodated in ergonomic cabins, which provide greater crew comfort with improved management of space.
Earlier on arrival, Vice Admiral Satish Soni inspected a Guard and was then introduced to the ship’s crew. Vice Admiral KR Nair, Controller Warship Production and Acquisition, Indian Navy, Commodore (Retd) PK Shrivastava Director, Goa Shipyard Limited and a host of dignitaries attended the event.
[mappress] Press Release, October 17, 2013; Image: Indian Navy