In a significant development for India’s maritime security, the Indian Coast Guard has officially commissioned the ICGS Akshar, the second vessel in the Adamya-class series of eight Fast Patrol Vessels (FPVs) at Karaikal. The commissioning ceremony, attended by senior officials from both the central and state governments, signifies a robust enhancement of surveillance capabilities along India’s coastlines.
The ICGS Akshar, measuring 51 meters in length and displacing approximately 320 tons, has been entirely designed and built by Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL). This achievement aligns with the Government’s initiatives, including Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India, which aim to boost self-reliance and indigenization in defense production. Notably, the vessel boasts over 60% indigenous content, underlining India’s commitment to developing its own defense shipbuilding capabilities.
Commissioned by Smt. Dipti Mohil Chawla, Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, the event was a testament to the collaborative efforts of various stakeholders in advancing the country’s maritime architecture. The presence of Additional Director General Donny Michael, alongside other officials, highlighted the strategic importance attributed to this new addition to the Coast Guard’s fleet.
ICGS Akshar is powered by two 3,000 KW diesel engines, which enable it to reach a maximum speed of 27 knots and maintain an operational endurance of 1,500 nautical miles. Its design incorporates two advanced Controllable Pitch Propellers (CPPs) and specialized gearboxes, allowing for superior maneuverability and flexibility in various maritime operations. The vessel’s armament includes a 30 mm CRN 91 gun, complemented by two 12.7 mm Stabilized Remote-Controlled Guns (SRCG) equipped with state-of-the-art fire-control systems.
Further enhancing operational efficiency, ICGS Akshar is equipped with a modern Integrated Bridge System (IBS), an Integrated Platform Management System (IPMS), and an Automated Power Management System (APMS), ensuring streamlined and automated operations on board.
Strategically positioned at Karaikal, Puducherry, under the leadership of the Commander Coast Guard Region (East), ICGS Akshar will serve critical roles in coastal surveillance, anti-smuggling operations, anti-poaching efforts, and search-and-rescue missions throughout India’s expansive maritime zones.
The name ‘Akshar’, meaning imperishable, embodies the Indian Coast Guard’s steadfast commitment to ensuring maritime safety, security, and environmental preservation. With the introduction of ICGS Akshar into its operational fleet, the Indian Coast Guard marks another milestone in fortifying the nation’s maritime capacity and enhancing its readiness within the strategically vital Indo-Pacific region.
