PANAJI: Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL) achieved a twin launch milestone today with the successful launch of two state-of-the-art Fast Patrol Vessels (FPVs), ICGS Ajit and ICGS Aparajit, for the Indian Coast Guard. The grand ceremony took place at GSL’s Vasco da Gama yard.
The vessels were ceremonially launched by Manju Sharma, in the presence of Chief Guest Dr. Mayank Sharma, Financial Advisor (Defence Services). The event was attended by senior representatives from the Indian Coast Guard, Indian Navy, Ministry of Defence, and GSL.
The two launches mark the completion of a series of eight FPVs indigenously designed and constructed by GSL under the Government of India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan. As the seventh and eighth vessels in the series, Ajit and Aparajit underscore India’s growing self-reliance in defence manufacturing and GSL’s strong commitment to the Make in India vision.
Each FPV is 52 metres long, displaces 320 tonnes, and is fitted with Controllable Pitch Propellers (CPP), a first for this class of ships in India, providing superior manoeuvrability and propulsion efficiency.
Built to meet the operational needs of the Coast Guard, the vessels will perform multiple roles including coastal surveillance, fisheries protection, anti-smuggling, anti-piracy, and search and rescue missions, especially around India’s island territories and Exclusive Economic Zone.
A senior GSL official described the launch as another proud milestone in the shipyard’s legacy of shipbuilding excellence. “With ICGS Ajit and ICGS Aparajit, GSL once again reinforces its pivotal role in strengthening India’s maritime security and contributing to the nation’s blue economy,” the official added.
