Offshore patrol vessels (OPVs) are highly versatile ships widely used by coast guards, naval and police forces for Economic Exclusion Zone (EEZ) management roles, including the provision of maritime security to coastal areas, anti-terrorist campaigns, protection of fisheries and humanitarian operations.
OPVs have become an increasingly popular addition to a country’s mix of maritime assets. Besides navies, agencies that also operate patrol vessels include marine police, customs services, ministries of interiors and coast guards.
In the naval vessel market, OPVs are the fastest growing segment and remain the heart of fleet modernization programs. Highly effective patrol vessels with anti-warfare and anti-surface capabilities are developed as weapon and combat systems continue to mature.
The report analyst commented "Navies around the world has started planning to prioritise their investment towards OPVs in consideration to restricting budgets and the continued concern over maritime terrorism and asymmetric threats."
Leading companies featured in the report who are developing Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV) include BAE Systems Plc, General Dynamics Corporation, Huntington Ingalls Industries, Inc, Austal, Fassmer Gmbh & Co., Maritime Partner AS, SAFE Boats International, LLC, China Shipbuilding Industry Corporation, Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering Co., Ltd, Fincantieri – Cantieri NavaliItaliani S.p.A., Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Ltd, Goa Shipyard Limited & Hyundai Heavy Industries Co., Ltd.