INS Gaj

Judging by the rope at the end, INS Gaj appears to be pulling a vessel out to sea. Image © Indian Navy

Vessel Type: Ocean Tug.

Name & Pennant Number with commission dates:
INS Gaj ??; (10 October 2002).

Displacement: 560 tons full load.

Dimensions: Length - 34 metres.
.................LPD* - 32.5 metres.
.................Beam - 10 metres.
.................Draft - 2.75 metres.
.................Hull Depth - 4 metres.
*Length Between Perpendiculars

Maximum Speed: 12 knots.

Maximum Range: Not Known.

Complement: 22 sailors including 1 officer.

Weapons: Not Known.

Comments: Built by Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL). The vessel has remarkable manoeuvrability and capability to tow vessels stranded on the high seas or those in distress to safe passage in the harbour. It an also be deployed as a floating fire tender. The vessel is equipped with some of the latest facilities including 1,060 KW Wartsila diesel engines, Voith Schneider propellers and a six-tonne hydraulic deck crane. It can move in any direction irrespective of the positioning of its head and turn 360 degrees on spot.