Have the Coast Guard Unveiled 2 New Fast Patrol Vessels in Goa?
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Synopsis
The Indian Coast Guard has launched two new Fast Patrol Vessels, reinforcing its commitment to maritime safety and self-reliance. This significant step enhances coastal protection and showcases India's growing shipbuilding capabilities.
Key Takeaways
- The Indian Coast Guard has launched two advanced Fast Patrol Vessels.
- The vessels are named ICG Ship Ajit and ICGS Aparajit.
- They are designed and built by Goa Shipyard Limited.
- The vessels will enhance coastal protection and maritime safety.
- They feature advanced technology for superior manoeuvrability.
New Delhi, Oct 24 (NationPress) The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has officially unveiled two cutting-edge Fast Patrol Vessels (FPVs), the ICG Ship Ajit and ICGS Aparajit, at Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL). These vessels represent the seventh and eighth units in a series of eight indigenously constructed FPVs by GSL for the ICG, marking a significant advancement in enhancing the country's coastal surveillance and response capabilities, according to an official statement.
Designed and completely fabricated by GSL, these FPVs showcase the escalating strength of India’s indigenous shipbuilding industry.
Spanning 52 metres in length and weighing 320 tonnes, these vessels are equipped with Controllable Pitch Propellers (CPP), the first in this class within India, delivering exceptional manoeuvrability and propulsion efficiency, as stated.
They possess the capability for multiple mission roles, including fisheries protection, coastal patrol, anti-smuggling, anti-piracy, and search and rescue operations, particularly in India’s island territories and Exclusive Economic Zone.
The vessels were inaugurated by Manju Sharma in the presence of Dr Mayank Sharma, the Chief Guest and Financial Advisor (Defence Services).
The event was attended by Inspector General Bhisham Sharma, Commander, ICG Region (West), along with senior officials from the ICG and Goa Shipyard Limited.
Dr Mayank Sharma praised the ICG and GSL for their accomplishments, highlighting the project’s impact on domestic industry, job creation, and the MSME ecosystem, emphasizing how such initiatives strengthen national self-reliance in maritime capabilities.
With the addition of these two FPVs, the ICG is further enhancing its fleet of modern, high-speed platforms, ensuring improved operational readiness and maritime safety across India's extensive coastline.
This launch solidifies GSL’s role as a crucial contributor to constructing next-generation indigenous defence vessels for the nation. The new vessels will enable the ICG to safeguard the country’s Exclusive Economic Zone more effectively.
The country's island territories and fishermen will also gain from the new additions to the ICG fleet, as these vessels are adept at multi-mission roles, including coastal patrol, anti-smuggling, anti-piracy, and search and rescue efforts.
Point of View
It is vital to recognize the Indian Coast Guard's strategic advancements through the launch of these Fast Patrol Vessels. This initiative not only enhances national security but also supports local industries and employment, demonstrating India's commitment to self-reliance in maritime defense.
NationPress
24/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the names of the newly launched vessels?
The newly launched Fast Patrol Vessels are named ICG Ship Ajit and ICGS Aparajit.
Where were the vessels launched?
The vessels were launched at Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL).
What is the significance of these vessels?
These vessels enhance India's coastal surveillance and response capabilities and are part of the nation's effort to strengthen indigenous shipbuilding.
What roles can the Fast Patrol Vessels undertake?
They can perform various missions, including fisheries protection, coastal patrol, anti-smuggling, anti-piracy, and search and rescue operations.
Who was present at the launch event?
The launch event was attended by Manju Sharma, Dr Mayank Sharma, and other senior officials from the ICG and GSL.
