On the high seas navies are not only a warfighting force but also a constabulary force. It has been difficult for most navies to balance and carry out these two different roles. Some smaller nations have decided to channel their modest means in favor of a naval constabulary force or a coast guard instead of buying expensive warships. 

However most naval nations do not have this luxury. The maritime security challenges continue to evolve, navies and coast guards around the world are seeking cost-effective solutions to safeguard their territorial waters and exclusive economic zones (EEZs). Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs) have emerged as a versatile class of warships that fulfill a range of operational concepts while offering significant cost savings. These vessels are typically smaller and less heavily armed compared to larger warships such as destroyers or frigates.