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Indian Coast Guard Launches Two New Fast Patrol Vessels Breakthrough

Soniya Gupta

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The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has launched two indigenously built Fast Patrol Vessels (FPVs) ICGS Ajith and ICGS Paramjit at Goa Shipyard (GSL) on 24 October 2025. These vessels, the seventh and eighth in a series of eight developed by GSL for the ICG, are designed for multiple missions including coastal patrol, fisheries protection, anti-smuggling, anti-piracy, and search-and-rescue operations across India’s Exclusive Economic Zone and island territories The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) marked a significant milestone in maritime defense and coastal security with the commissioning of two state-of-the-art Fast Patrol Vessels (FPVs). This major development represents.

India’s unwavering commitment to strengthening its maritime surveillance capabilities under the Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives. These modern vessels have been designed and constructed by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE) in Kolkata, one of the country’s premier shipbuilding companies. The addition of these FPVs to the ICG fleet underscores India’s determination to protect its 7,500 km-long coastline, ensure maritime safety, and enhance operational readiness against security challenges in the Indian Ocean Region The introduction of these two new Fast Patrol Vessels will significantly boost India’s coastal security architecture.

Designed for swift response, the FPVs are equipped to perform multi-role operations including patrolling, anti-smuggling, anti-poaching, and search and rescue missions. Their deployment aims to provide real-time surveillance and rapid response to emerging maritime threats, ensuring that the Indian coastline remains well-protected at all times. These ships are particularly suited for missions requiring speed, precision, and endurance, making them ideal for high-alert regions such as the Arabian Sea, the Bay of Bengal, and India’s island territories. The vessels will enhance the Coast Guard’s ability to carry out both peacetime and wartime operations with greater efficiency.

Technical Excellence and Advanced Features

These FPVs are a product of India’s growing indigenous shipbuilding capability. Each vessel can reach speeds of up to 34 knots, powered by modern engines and advanced navigation systems. Built with a combination of steel hulls and aluminum superstructures, they strike a perfect balance between strength, stability, and lightness. The design ensures optimal fuel efficiency while maintaining operational flexibility during long-duration missions. The vessels come equipped with state-of-the-art radar, electronic surveillance systems, modern communication equipment, and upgraded weapon systems capable of neutralizing fast-moving maritime threats. Automation plays a key role in these ships, allowing smaller.

Crew sizes to operate effectively with reduced manual intervention. The inclusion of environment-friendly mechanisms also reflects India’s commitment to sustainable maritime practices of these FPVs is a (Solar Power) strategic step in enhancing India’s overall maritime response infrastructure. These vessels are designed to support inter-agency coordination among the Navy, Coast Guard, and coastal police units. They will operate from key coastal bases and act as a rapid response force during emergencies such as oil spills, rescue missions, or natural disasters Their presence will also deter illegal maritime.

Activities such as trafficking, piracy, and unauthorized fishing. By enabling faster deployment and improved monitoring capabilities, the FPVs will reinforce India’s maritime domain awareness and ensure the safety of national and international shipping lanes One of the most remarkable aspects of this launch is its alignment with the Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) vision. The construction of these ships entirely within India showcases the nation’s evolving capacity for indigenous defense manufacturing. From design to production, the vessels were developed using homegrown technologies and locally sourced materials.

Enhancing Coastal Vigilance and Environmental Protection

The collaboration between GRSE and the Indian Coast Guard exemplifies India’s move toward technological self-sufficiency, reduced import dependency, and economic empowerment through defense innovation. Furthermore, it strengthens local industries and promotes skill development among Indian engineers and technicians involved in the project Beyond defense and security, these vessels will play a crucial role in ensuring maritime safety and environmental protection. They are equipped to conduct pollution response operations and monitor marine ecosystems for illegal dumping or oil spills. The Coast Guard’s mandate extends to ensuring that India’s blue.

Economy remains sustainable and that its marine biodiversity is preserved. These FPVs are thus not only guardians of security but also protectors of the environment. Their sophisticated sensors and detection tools allow for efficient monitoring of ecological zones and prompt action during maritime emergencies India’s geopolitical position demands a strong maritime presence, particularly amid rising challenges in the Indo-Pacific region. The induction of these FPVs enhances India’s readiness to respond to regional contingencies and strengthens maritime cooperation with neighboring nations. It also ensures that India can continue to play a constructive role in regional.

Peacekeeping and disaster relief efforts. The vessels symbolize India’s growing stature as a maritime power capable of securing its national waters and contributing to international maritime safety. Their deployment will complement existing surveillance assets such as offshore patrol vessels, interceptor boats, and maritime aircraft, forming a robust multi-layered security grid The Indian Coast Guard has always been at the forefront of humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) operations. These new vessels are designed to respond to distress calls within minutes, equipped with medical facilities and high-speed rescue boats for saving lives at sea.

Future Expansion and Modernization of the Fleet

During monsoon-related crises or cyclonic disturbances, FPVs will serve as crucial lifelines for fishermen and coastal communities. Their enhanced endurance and mobility allow them to operate in rough sea conditions and remain stationed for extended durations during rescue missions The addition of these two FPVs is part of a broader modernization program by the Indian Coast Guard. Plans are already underway to induct more offshore patrol vessels, interceptor crafts, and maritime aircraft to expand surveillance coverage across India’s vast maritime boundaries. By 2030, the ICG aims to become a 200-ship, 100-aircraft force equipped with next.

Generation technology. The government’s focus on building indigenous defense capabilities ensures that future vessels will continue to be built by Indian shipyards, sustaining the cycle of innovation, employment, and economic growth The launch of two new Fast Patrol Vessels marks a defining moment in India’s maritime journey blending technological advancement, national security, and self-reliance. These vessels symbolize India’s determination to safeguard its seas, strengthen its defense manufacturing base, and project maritime strength across the region. From combating illegal activities and securing trade routes to rescuing lives and protecting the marine ecosystem.

The FPVs are a testament to the Indian Coast Guard’s evolving capability and dedication. As India continues to expand its blue-water capabilities, the integration (GRSEL) of these vessels ensures that the nation remains vigilant, prepared, and self-reliant in every aspect of maritime defense.

Q1. What are Fast Patrol Vessels (FPVs)?
Fast Patrol Vessels are high-speed ships used by the Coast Guard for patrolling, search and rescue, and anti-smuggling missions.

Q2. Who built the new Indian Coast Guard FPVs?
The vessels were built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE) under the Make in India initiative.

Q3. What is the main purpose of these vessels?
Their primary roles include maritime surveillance, coastal security, and environmental protection.

Q4. How will these FPVs help India’s maritime security?
They will enhance coastal monitoring, improve rapid response to emergencies, and prevent illegal activities in Indian waters.

Q5. Are these FPVs part of India’s self-reliant defense program?
Yes, they are indigenously developed, aligning with the government’s Atmanirbhar Bharat mission.