New Fast Patrol Vessel ‘ICGS Akshar’ Enhances Indian Coast Guard’s Maritime Capabilities

Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL) has delivered the ICGS Akshar to the Indian Coast Guard, a significant addition to the nation’s fleet and a boost to its maritime security capabilities. This Fast Patrol Vessel (FPV) is part of a series of eight built under the Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan. Measuring 51.43 meters long and 8 meters wide, the vessel has a displacement of approximately 330 tons. The ICGS Akshar is powered by two marine diesel engines that are connected to controllable pitch propellers (CPP). This feature provides enhanced speed and operational efficiency, a first for this category. The vessel can achieve speeds above 27 knots and has an operational range of 1,500 nautical miles. It can accommodate a crew of 6 officers and 35 sailors. The ICGS Akshar will undertake critical operations, including fisheries protection, EEZ surveillance, coastal patrolling, countering smuggling, combating maritime piracy, and conducting search and rescue missions. The delivery of the ICGS Akshar is a significant step towards strengthening maritime security and is a success story for the Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives.