India gifts two interceptor boats to Mozambique

India has gifted two specialised boats to Mozambique, the step part of capacity-building engagements with friendly nations in the Indian Ocean Region.

In naval terminology, these boats are called ‘water-jet propelled fast interceptor craft (FIC)’. The FICs were trans-shipped on board Indian warship INS Gharial.

These boats have a top speed of 45 knots (83 km) and a range of 380 km. They can carry a crew of five personnel and are equipped with machine guns and bullet-resistant cabins.

High Commissioner of India in Mozambique Robert Shetkintong, India’s Defence Adviser at Maputo Col Puneet Attri and the Commanding Officer of INS Gharial Commander Rajan Chib were present at the event.

In 2019, India had gifted similar ‘Interceptors vessels’, which are used in anti-insurgency operations, maritime patrol and interdiction, and logistics support missions. India has also provided training opportunities for the Mozambique Armed Forces in various professional institutions in India.