GSL delivers second fast patrol vessel to Indian Coast Guard

Panaji: Goa Shipyard Ltd (GSL) on Wednesday handed over ICGS Akshar, the second in a series of eight fast patrol vessels (FPVs) being built for the Indian Coast Guard.The 51.4-metre vessel, with a displacement of 330 tonnes, is one of the first in the Indian Coast Guard’s fleet of patrol vessels to be powered by twin marine diesel engines with controllable pitch propellers. The controllable pitch propellers enable improved propulsion efficiency and manoeuvrability out at sea. It can reach speeds above 27 knots and has an endurance of 1,500 nautical miles.ICGS Adamya was the first vessel under the eight FPV project and it was inducted in the Indian Coast Guard on June 26.Designed for fisheries protection, coastal patrol, anti-smuggling, anti-piracy, and search-and-rescue missions, ICGS Akshar will operate with a complement of six officers and 35 sailors. The vessel features an advanced integrated machinery control system to enhance operational readiness, GSL said in a statement.GSL chairman and managing director Brajesh Kumar Upadhyay said the handover underscored GSL’s commitment to delivering high-performance indigenous platforms. With the FPV series, the state-run shipyard aims to consolidate its role in strengthening maritime security while supporting India’s push to become a global shipbuilding hub.