The Defense Ministry has signed a contract with Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), Mumbai on January 24, 2024, for the purpose of acquisition of 14 fast patrol boats (FPVs) for the Indian Coast Guard (ICG). A contract worth Rs 1070.47 crore has been signed for this. These multi-role fast patrol boats will be indigenously designed, developed and built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited under the Sale (Indian-IDDM) category and will be delivered in a total period of 63 months.
Along with a host of high-tech advanced features and equipment, these multi-role fast patrol vessels will be equipped with multi-role drones, wirelessly controlled remote water rescue craft, lifebuoys and artificial intelligence capabilities, thereby enabling the Indian Coast Guard to meet the multi-faceted challenges of the modern era. There will be more flexibility to cope as well as better operational capacity. These modern fast patrol boats are engaged in fisheries protection and surveillance, control and monitoring, anti-smuggling operations, search and rescue operations in shallow water including other places, assistance to ships/boats in distress, enhancement of towing capabilities, prevention of marine pollution. They will play an important role in response operations, support and surveillance during anti-piracy operations. The acquisition of these fast patrol vessels aims to boost the capabilities of the Indian Coast Guard and expand the Government's growing efforts towards maritime security.
This contract will expand the country's indigenous warship building capacity in line with 'Atmanirbhar Bharat', promote maritime economic activities and thereby accelerate the development of supporting industries, especially the micro, small and medium enterprise sector. This project will effectively generate growth with employment opportunities and expertise in the country.