Rolls-Royce, the global power systems company, has won a contract from Cochin Shipyard to supply 60 water jets for a new fleet of 20 fast patrol vessels (FPVs) for the Indian Coast Guard.

The contract will involve the supply of Rolls-Royce Kamewa 71S3np water jets (three per vessel), and associated equipment including a joystick control system which will enhance the manoeuvring capabilities of the vessels.

The 50-metre-long vessels, which are currently under construction, will reach speeds of 33 knots and will operate in Indian coastal waters and around island territories.

Their roles will include coastal patrolling, anti-smuggling missions, fisheries protection, as well as search and rescue duties. Water jets enable operation in shallow waters and offer higher speeds and better manoeuvrability than conventional propellers.