The keel laying ceremony of Fast Patrol Vessel FPV-3 and the plate cutting ceremony of FPV-6 for the Indian Coast Guard were held today at Ritchie Dry Dock, Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), marking important milestones in the construction programme of 14 Fast Patrol Vessels (FPVs).
The ceremonies were conducted in the presence of senior officials from the Indian Coast Guard and MDL. The events signify steady progress in the project aimed at strengthening India’s coastal security and maritime surveillance capabilities.
Contract for the design and construction of the 14 FPVs was signed between the Indian Coast Guard and MDL in January 2024. The vessels, with an approximate displacement of 340 tonnes, are water-jet propelled and are designed to undertake a wide range of roles including coastal patrol, search and rescue operations, and maritime law enforcement.
Project features a minimum indigenous content of 60 percent, reflecting a strong emphasis on domestic manufacturing. Indigenous capabilities are further reinforced through the integration of domestically produced gearboxes and water-jet systems. The FPVs will also be equipped with advanced technologies such as AI-enabled predictive maintenance systems and multipurpose drones, enhancing operational efficiency and mission readiness.
FPV-3 and plate cutting of FPV-6 represent key steps in the overall construction schedule. The project aligns with the national vision of self-reliance in defence manufacturing and is expected to significantly augment the operational reach and responsiveness of the Indian Coast Guard across the Indian Ocean Region.
