Two Fast Patrol Vessels (FPVs), Amulya and Akshay, designed and built indigenously by Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL) for the Indian Coast Guard (ICG), were launched by Sanjeev Kumar, Secretary (Defence Production), in Goa today. These vessels are the third and fourth in a series of eight FPVs being constructed by GSL for the ICG, highlighting the shipyard’s significant role in realizing India’s vision of Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance) in defence production.

In his address, Kumar praised the enduring collaboration between the ICG and GSL. He emphasized that the launch of these vessels reflects the resilience and ingenuity of the shipyard, developed in close collaboration with the Indian industry. He also underscored that the indigenous content of these vessels is a proud reflection of India’s commitment to the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

Advertisement

He also commended GSL’s team for ensuring that the shipbuilding requirements of the ICG are met through indigenous efforts, despite challenges. He urged all involved to maintain their focus on achieving greater self-reliance in defence production.

In his speech, the Chief Managing Director (CMD) of GSL, Brajesh Kumar Upadhyay, highlighted the shipyard’s impressive growth, with a 100 per cent increase in Gross Revenue, surpassing the Rs 2,000 crore mark. Senior officials from both the Indian Coast Guard and Goa Shipyard, as well as key stakeholders from the defence and maritime communities, attended the event.

The launch follows the unveiling of the first two FPVs in October last, namely Adamya and Akshar, and is part of a contract concluded in March 2022 worth Rs 473 crore. These state-of-the-art FPVs feature over 60 per cent indigenous content and are specifically designed by GSL to meet the ICG’s operational needs.

At 52 meters in length and 320 tonnes in displacement, the vessels will play a crucial role in enhancing ICG’s capabilities in protecting offshore assets, island territories, and exclusive economic zones. Their primary duties will include fisheries protection, coastal patrol, and performing anti-smuggling, anti-piracy, and search & rescue operations.

In a significant milestone for GSL, the launch of these vessels marks the first time the shipyard has utilized its state-of-the-art ship-lift system for simultaneous launches, underscoring the shipyard’s modernization efforts. Notably, this project is the first in India to feature FPVs built with controllable pitch propellers. Additionally, the development of these vessels is expected to contribute significantly to the local economy, fostering employment and growth in the ecosystem of MSMEs and local industries supporting GSL.