Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL), a premier Defence Public Sector Undertakings, today achieved yet another significant milestone with the First Reading Ceremony and formal Handing Over of ICGS Akshar (Yard 1276) — the second vessel in the prestigious series of eight state-of-the-art Fast Patrol Vessels (FPVs) being built for the Indian Coast Guard under the Government’s Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan.
The ceremony was graced by Brajesh Kumar Upadhyay, Chairman & Managing Director, GSL; RAdm Nelson D’Souza, NM, IN (Retd), Director (Operations); DIG V.K. Parmar, PD (MAT); Commandant (JG) Subhendu Chakraborty, Commanding Officer, ICGS Akshar; and other senior officials of the Indian Coast Guard.
ICGS Akshar embodies the spirit of self-reliance and technological innovation. Measuring 51.43 m in length and 8 m in breadth, with a displacement of 330 tons at a draught of 2.5 m, the vessel is powered by twin marine diesel engines driving controllable pitch propellers (CPP) — a first in this class of FPVs, ensuring superior propulsion efficiency and maneuverability.
With a top speed exceeding 27 knots and an impressive endurance of 1,500 nautical miles, the ship is equipped with an advanced integrated machinery control system for enhanced operational readiness and sustainability.
The vessel will be operated by a complement of six officers and 35 sailors. Purpose-built for fisheries protection, Exclusive Economic Zone surveillance, coastal patrol, anti-smuggling, anti-piracy, and search & rescue missions, ICGS Akshar is a force multiplier that will significantly strengthen India’s coastal and offshore security architecture.
