Indian Coast Guard Unveils Two New Fast Patrol Vessels

INDIAN COAST GUARD LAUNCHES TWO ADVANCED FAST PATROL VESSELS

Why in the News?

  • Recent Launch: The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has launched two Advanced Fast Patrol Vessels (FPVs) — ICG Ship Ajit and ICG Ship Aparajit — at Goa Shipyard Limited.
  • Series Completion: These vessels are the seventh and eighth in a series of eight indigenously built FPVs, marking a milestone in India’s coastal defence production.
  • Defence Ministry Update: The Ministry of Defence confirmed the launch as part of efforts to strengthen maritime safety and surveillance capabilities.

Indian Coast Guard Unveils Two New Fast Patrol Vessels

FEATURES AND CAPABILITIES

  • Advanced Design: Each 52-metre-long vessel weighs around 320 tonnes, featuring superior manoeuvrability and propulsion efficiency.
  • Technological First: Equipped with Controllable Pitch Propellers (CPPs) — a first in this class of Indian ships, enhancing operational performance.
  • Multi-Mission Use: Designed for fisheries protection, coastal patrol, anti-smuggling, anti-piracy, and search and rescue
  • Indigenous Strength: Reflects India’s push towards Atmanirbhar Bharat in defence shipbuilding and maritime self-reliance.
  • Operational Reach: Enhances the Coast Guard’s capacity to secure India’s maritime zones efficiently and swiftly.

INDIAN COAST GUARD (ICG)

●     Formation: Established on 1st February 1977 under the Coast Guard Act, 1978.

●     Primary Role: Ensures maritime safety, law enforcement, and environmental protection within Indian waters.

●     Headquarters: Located in New Delhi, under the Ministry of Defence.

●     Fleet Composition: Operates a mix of offshore patrol vessels, interceptor boats, and aircraft for maritime surveillance.

●     Motto and Vision: Motto — “Vayam Rakshamah” (We Protect); Vision — to maintain peace and security in India’s maritime domain.