Indian coast guard launches patrol vessel ‘Achal’

Goa

The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) launched its fifth Fast Patrol Vessel (FPV), named ‘Achal’, in a series of eight under construction, at Goa on Monday. Built at a cost of ₹473 crore by Goa Shipyard Ltd (GSL), the vessel was ceremonially launched by Kavita Harbola in the presence of Coast Guard Commander (Western Seaboard) Additional Director General Anil Kumar Harbola.

Measuring 52 metres in length and 8 metres in breadth, the 320-tonne vessel is equipped with a controllable pitch propeller (CPP)-based propulsion system, enabling it to achieve speeds of up to 27 knots. ‘Achal’ is designed under dual-class certification from the American Bureau of Shipping and the Indian Register of Shipping, and features more than 60% indigenous components.

The vessel’s primary roles Include”coastal protection, offshore asset monitoring, surveillance, and control. It is expected to enhance the Coast Guard’s ability to safeguard island territories and key maritime infrastructure. Officials stated that the launch underscores the continuing collaboration between ICG and GSL, furthering the nation’s goal of achieving Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance) in defence manufacturing. The FPV project has also contributed to local employment and supported MSMEs involved in component production, strengthening the defence manufacturing ecosystem.

Separately, earlier this month, ICG Director General Paramesh Sivamani inaugurated a new dedicated jetty at Vizhinjam Harbour, Kerala. Strategically located near international shipping lanes and the Vizhinjam International Transhipment Deepwater Port, the jetty will enhance coastal surveillance, search and rescue, and anti-smuggling operations by enabling faster deployment of Coast Guard vessels.