In a step towards strengthening India’s maritime security, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) marked 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, on Thursday. Simultaneously, the Girder Laying ceremonies for the second and third indigenously built Air Cushion Vehicles (ACVs) were held at Chowgule’s Rassaim Yard, Goa.
The contract for the design and construction of 14 FPVs, with 60% indigenous content, was signed on January 24, 2024. Each FPV, with a displacement of approximately 340 tons, is powered by indigenously developed gearboxes from M/s Triveni, Mysore, and water jets from M/s MJP India. The vessels are designed for coastal security, search and rescue, and law enforcement operations, and are equipped with state-of-the-art technologies, including AI-based predictive maintenance systems and multipurpose drones.
The event in Goa marked another key step in the ICG’s modernization efforts, with the Girder Laying of the second and third ACVs under the contract signed on October 24, 2024. Based on the proven Griffon Hoverwork (UK) design and incorporating over 50% indigenous components, these ACVs are capable of high-speed patrolling, reconnaissance, interception, interdiction, and all-weather search and rescue operations.
Designed to operate seamlessly across shallow waters, marshes, and open seas, the ACVs will serve as force multipliers for the Coast Guard, ensuring enhanced mobility and rapid response during coastal emergencies.
Once commissioned, both the FPVs and ACVs will significantly bolster the Indian Coast Guard’s operational reach and surveillance capabilities across the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), further reinforcing India’s maritime preparedness and indigenous shipbuilding strength.