By A Correspondent

Mumbai/Goa: In a significant boost to India’s coastal security and maritime self-reliance, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) marked two key milestones on Oct. 28, 2025, with the Keel Laying of the second Fast Patrol Vessel (FPV) and Plate Cutting of the fifth FPV under the ongoing 14 FPV Project at Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) in Mumbai.

Simultaneously, Girder Laying Ceremonies for the second and third Air Cushion Vehicles (ACVs) were held at Chowgule’s Rassaim Yard in Goa, reinforcing India’s commitment to strengthening its indigenous shipbuilding ecosystem.

The dual ceremonies underscore the rapid progress of India’s shipbuilding programme under the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ (Self-Reliant India) initiative.

The FPVs and ACVs are being developed with substantial indigenous content and advanced technologies to enhance the Coast Guard’s capability to safeguard India’s vast maritime zones and Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

The contract for 14 FPVs, boasting 60% indigenous content, was signed on Jan. 24, 2024. These next-generation vessels, designed and constructed by MDL, will play a critical role in coastal security, search and rescue (SAR), anti-smuggling, and law enforcement operations.

Each FPV will displace around 340 tons and be powered by indigenously built gearboxes from Triveni, Mysore, and water jets from MJP India, ensuring efficient propulsion and manoeuvrability in shallow waters.

In a major step toward technological modernisation, the FPVs will also incorporate AI-based predictive maintenance systems and multipurpose drones for surveillance and operational support, making them among the most advanced vessels in their class.

These additions highlight India’s growing emphasis on integrating artificial intelligence and automation in defence platforms to enhance efficiency and reduce maintenance downtime.

Parallelly, the Air Cushion Vehicle (ACV) programme, with six units contracted on Oct. 24, 2024, marks another leap in India’s coastal security capabilities.

Based on the proven Griffon Hoverwork (UK) design and featuring over 50% indigenous content, these ACVs are being built by Chowgule Shipyard, which has previously contributed to several key defence shipbuilding projects.

The ACVs, often referred to as hovercraft, will be capable of high-speed patrolling, reconnaissance, interception, interdiction, and all-weather search and rescue missions.

Their ability to seamlessly traverse shallow waters, marshes, and open seas makes them invaluable assets for quick response in coastal and island territories, particularly along India’s eastern and western seaboards.

Once commissioned, these platforms will significantly augment the Indian Coast Guard’s operational reach and provide a technological edge in maritime surveillance and mobility.

They will serve as force multipliers, enabling faster deployment during emergencies and enhancing coordination with other maritime agencies operating in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

Together, the FPV and ACV projects reflect India’s strategic shift toward self-reliance in defence manufacturing and its resolve to secure its maritime frontiers through indigenous innovation.

The integration of advanced systems, domestic production of critical components, and partnership with established Indian shipyards like MDL and Chowgule underline the country’s growing prowess as a maritime power in the Indo-Pacific.

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