Indian Register of Shipping is classing a series of nine Floating Border Outposts (FBOPs), constructed by Cochin Shipyard Limited for the Border Security Force, Ministry of Home Affairs. Six vessels have been delivered so far and are being deployed in the Sundarbans in West Bengal. The next three vessels will be based in creeks of Kutch (Gujarat).

Each FBOP carries four “Daughter Boats” onboard for patrolling, capable of attaining a speed of 29 knots. IRS has played a dual role in this project; as Classification Society for classing the vessel and also to ensure that the specific requirements of BSF are met. IRS has been involved in the project as early as tendering stage, taking an active role in finalising the technical specifications and subsequently evaluating the technical bids of the shipyards.

Mr Shammy K, Principal Surveyor & Head of IRS Survey Station, Kochi said “IRS, along with CSL, has ensured that all the operational requirements of these vessels have been met to the satisfaction of the owners. These vessels will meet the tough conditions of the Sunderbans and Gujarat creeks.”

Mr Vijay Arora, Managing Director IRS mentioned “IRS is pleased to be associated with Indian Defence and Paramilitary forces. IRS has been involved with Ministry of Home Affairs/ Border Security Force for the FBOP project, ensuring compliance with procedural requirements, and guiding the yard towards possible solutions for any issues faced during the classification process”.

MMT