Keel laying, plate cutting and girder laying ceremonies mark key milestones in Indian Coast Guard’s fleet expansion

New Delhi, October 30. The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) marked another step forward in strengthening its coastal security capabilities with the keel laying of the second fast patrol vessel (FPV) and plate cutting of the fifth FPV under the 14-FPV Project at Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), Mumbai. Simultaneously, girder laying ceremonies for the second and third indigenously built Air Cushion Vehicles (ACVs) were held at Chowgule’s Rassaim Yard in Goa, according o a statement issued by the Ministry of Defence.

The 14-FPV Project, awarded on January 24, 2024, aims to enhance the ICG’s operational reach with vessels featuring 60 percent indigenous content. Each FPV will be powered by locally manufactured gearboxes from Triveni, Mysore, and water jets from MJP India. With an approximate displacement of 340 tons, these water-jet propelled ships are designed for coastal security, search and rescue, and law enforcement missions. They will also incorporate advanced technologies such as AI-based predictive maintenance systems and multipurpose drones, reflecting India’s growing emphasis on smart and self-reliant defence platforms.

In a parallel initiative, the ICG’s fleet of air cushion vehicles (ACVs) is taking shape under a contract signed on October 24, 2024, for the construction of six ACVs. Based on the proven Griffon Hoverwork (UK) design, the indigenously built craft will feature over 50 percent local content. Capable of high-speed patrolling, reconnaissance, interdiction, and all-weather rescue operations, the ACVs are expected to significantly boost the ICG’s agility and response across shallow waters, marshes, and open seas.

Both the FPV and ACV projects are aligned with the government’s ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ vision and are expected to substantially enhance India’s maritime surveillance and security posture in the Indian Ocean Region.