Goa, October 9, 2026: The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) commissioned its indigenous Fast Patrol Vessel (FPV), ICGS Ajit, at Goa Shipyard Limited on Friday, marking another milestone in India’s efforts to strengthen maritime security and promote indigenous defence manufacturing under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
The vessel was formally commissioned by Dr. Sirish Choudhary, Indian Defence Accounts Service (IDAS), Principal Integrated Financial Advisor of the Indian Coast Guard, during a ceremony held at Goa Shipyard Limited.
Designed and built in India, ICGS Ajit is equipped with advanced weaponry and modern control systems to support a wide range of maritime security and law enforcement operations. The vessel represents the country’s growing capabilities in indigenous shipbuilding and the development of modern platforms for coastal security.
Following its commissioning, ICGS Ajit will be based at Okha in Gujarat, a strategically important location along India’s western coastline. From its operational base, the vessel will undertake maritime surveillance, search and rescue operations, anti-smuggling missions and marine pollution response duties.
The deployment of the new Fast Patrol Vessel is expected to enhance the Indian Coast Guard’s operational reach and readiness in the Arabian Sea, particularly in waters along the Gujarat coast. The region is important for maritime trade, fishing activities and coastal security because of its proximity to international maritime boundaries and major shipping routes.
Fast Patrol Vessels form an essential component of the Indian Coast Guard’s fleet, providing speed, mobility and operational flexibility for coastal patrols and maritime law enforcement. These vessels are designed to respond to security incidents, assist vessels in distress and support the protection of India’s maritime interests.
The induction of ICGS Ajit will further strengthen the Coast Guard’s ability to monitor maritime activities, respond to emergencies and counter illegal activities at sea. Its modern systems are intended to support effective operations across a range of maritime security scenarios.
The commissioning also highlights the role of Goa Shipyard Limited in supporting India’s defence indigenisation programme. The shipyard has contributed to the construction of patrol vessels and other maritime platforms for the Indian Coast Guard and Indian Navy, helping expand the country’s domestic shipbuilding capabilities.
Under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, India has placed increasing emphasis on developing and manufacturing defence equipment domestically, including warships, patrol vessels, surveillance systems and other maritime platforms. Indigenous shipbuilding is an important part of this effort, supporting technological development and reducing dependence on imported defence equipment.
The Indian Coast Guard is responsible for protecting India’s maritime interests, enforcing maritime laws, conducting search and rescue operations, preventing smuggling and responding to marine pollution incidents. Its fleet of ships and aircraft operates across India’s extensive coastline and maritime zones.
The commissioning of ICGS Ajit marks another addition to the Coast Guard’s operational fleet and reinforces India’s focus on modernising its maritime security capabilities through indigenous technology and shipbuilding expertise.
