Indian Coast Guard Launches Two Indigenous Fast Patrol Vessels, Strengthening Maritime Security

Panaji, Goa: In a significant boost to India’s maritime security capabilities, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) simultaneously launched two advanced Fast Patrol Vessels (FPVs), Adamya and Akshar, on October 28, 2024. The vessels, built by Goa Shipyard Ltd. (GSL) with over 60% indigenous content, mark a step forward in achieving self-reliance in defense under the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative.

The FPVs, each measuring 52 meters in length with an 8-meter breadth, are equipped with a controllable pitch propeller-based propulsion system, enabling a top speed of 27 knots and a displacement of 320 tons. These vessels, built under stringent dual certification from the American Bureau of Shipping and the Indian Register of Shipping, are part of an eight-vessel contract signed with GSL at a cost of Rs 473 crore. Their primary mission includes protection, monitoring, control, and surveillance, with a focus on safeguarding India’s offshore assets and island territories.

In a landmark event, the vessels were simultaneously launched for the first time using GSL’s state-of-the-art Ship Lift System. The vessels were ceremoniously inaugurated and named by Smt Priya Paramesh in the presence of Director General of the Indian Coast Guard, Paramesh Sivamani, amidst chants from the Atharva Veda.

During the event, DG Sivamani commended the efforts of GSL and associated industries for their dedication to building indigenously-manufactured defense assets for the ICG. Congratulating the GSL team on this achievement, he encouraged them to continue their work toward ‘Aatmanirbharta’ (self-reliance) in defense. “This milestone showcases India’s growing capabilities in indigenous shipbuilding and strengthens our readiness to protect national maritime interests,” he remarked.

The launch event was attended by several high-ranking officials, including GSL’s Chairman and Managing Director, Shri Brajesh Kumar Upadhyay, as well as representatives from the Indian Navy, ICG, and classification societies. The addition of Adamya and Akshar reinforces the Indian Coast Guard’s commitment to modernizing its fleet and enhancing coastal security.