ICG Launches Two Indigenously-Built Fast Patrol Vessels ‘Ajit’ and ‘Aparajit’

In News

The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) launched two indigenously-built Fast Patrol Vessels (FPVs) — ICGS Ajit and ICGS Aparajit — at Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL), marking another step in strengthening India’s maritime security and self-reliance in defence manufacturing.

Analysis

• Indigenisation Milestone:
  The vessels are the 7th and 8th in a series of eight FPVs constructed by GSL for the Indian Coast Guard, highlighting India’s progress toward Atmanirbhar Bharat in the defence and shipbuilding sector.
• Design and Technology:
  • Length: 52 metres
  • Displacement: 320 tonnes
  • Propulsion: Equipped with Controllable Pitch Propellers (CPP) — a first in this class of ships in India — ensuring enhanced manoeuvrability and propulsion efficiency.
  • Design: Completely indigenously developed by Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL).
• Operational Role:
  The FPVs are designed for multi-mission operations, including:
  • Coastal and fisheries protection
  • Anti-smuggling and anti-piracy operations
  • Search and rescue missions
  • Maritime security in India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and island territories
• Event Highlights:
  • The vessels were launched by Smt. Manju Sharma.
  • Chief Guest: Dr. Mayank Sharma, Financial Advisor (Defence Services).
  • Attendees included Inspector General Bhisham Sharma, Commander, Coast Guard Region (West), and senior officials from ICG and GSL.
• Strategic Significance:
  • Strengthens India’s maritime surveillance and coastal security architecture.
  • Demonstrates successful collaboration between ICG and Indian shipyards.
  • Supports domestic MSMEs and the defence industrial ecosystem, enhancing indigenous capability in naval design and production.

Static/Background Information

• Indian Coast Guard (ICG):
  • Established: 1 February 1977.
  • Functions under: Ministry of Defence.
  • Mandate: Protection of India’s maritime interests, enforcement of maritime law, search and rescue (SAR), and environmental protection.
  • Motto: “Vayam Rakshamah” (We Protect).
• Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL):
  • A Ministry of Defence (MoD) PSU.
  • Specialises in design and construction of advanced patrol vessels, OPVs, missile corvettes, and support ships.
  • Plays a critical role in India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India initiatives in the maritime sector.
• Fast Patrol Vessels (FPVs):
  • High-speed, multi-role ships used by ICG for surveillance and patrolling.
  • Typically deployed for coastal defence, anti-poaching, anti-smuggling, and environmental protection missions.
    
    Updated - 24 Oct 2025 ; 10: 38 PM | DD News