ICG Launches Indigenous Fast Patrol Vessels ‘Adamya’ and ‘Akshar’ to Boost Maritime Security

Goa, India – In a significant milestone for India’s maritime capabilities, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has simultaneously launched two Fast Patrol Vessels (FPVs), named ‘Adamya’ and ‘Akshar,’ at Goa Shipyard Ltd. (GSL). The launch, which took place today, marks the culmination of a contract signed for eight such vessels, amounting to Rs 473 crore, and highlights India’s commitment to Indigenous defence production. 

The new FPVs are designed with over 60% Indigenous content, underscoring the government's initiative towards achieving self-reliance in defence manufacturing. With the primary roles of protection, monitoring, control, and surveillance, these advanced vessels will enhance the ICG’s ability to secure offshore assets and safeguard India's island territories. 

Each FPV measures 52 meters in length and 8 meters in breadth, boasting a maximum speed of 27 knots. The vessels feature a Controllable Pitch Propeller-based propulsion system and have a displacement of 320 tons. They have been meticulously designed and constructed to meet the ICG’s specific requirements, adhering to the stringent dual-class certification from the American Bureau of Shipping and the Indian Register of Shipping.

In an unprecedented move, both vessels were launched simultaneously utilizing the state-of-the-art Ship Lift System, showcasing GSL's advanced shipbuilding capabilities. The ceremonial inauguration of the vessels was graced by Smt. Priya Paramesh, who named the FPVs amidst the chants of ‘Atharva Veda.’ The ceremony was attended by key dignitaries, including the Director General of the ICG, Paramesh Sivamani, and several veterans from the Indian Coast Guard. 

Significance of the Launch

Addressing the gathering, DG Paramesh Sivamani commended the efforts of GSL and other associated industries for fulfilling the ICG's ship-building requirements through indigenous means. He congratulated the employees of GSL for reaching this critical milestone and encouraged them to continue pursuing the vision of ‘Aatmanirbharta’ (self-reliance) in the defence sector. 

“This achievement is a testament to the dedication and capabilities of our local shipbuilding industry. It reflects our commitment to strengthening our maritime defence while also fostering local talent and resources,” said DG Sivamani. 

The event also saw the presence of Shri Brajesh Kumar Upadhyay, Chairman and Managing Director of GSL, along with senior officials from the Indian Navy, ICG, GSL, and various classification societies. The collaboration among these entities marks a significant step towards enhancing India’s maritime security framework and boosting the nation’s defence manufacturing capabilities. 

Future Implications

The launch of ‘Adamya’ and ‘Akshar’ is expected to bolster the operational readiness of the Indian Coast Guard, enabling it to perform its mandate more effectively in India's vast maritime domain. The addition of these advanced FPVs will not only improve surveillance and monitoring capabilities but will also contribute to the safety and security of India’s extensive coastline and offshore assets.

As India continues to invest in its Indigenous defence production capabilities, initiatives like these play a pivotal role in ensuring that the nation remains self-sufficient in its defence needs while fostering technological advancements in the maritime sector. The successful launch of these vessels is a key milestone in India’s journey towards becoming a global defence manufacturing hub.