Several fast interception crafts (FICs) of the Indian Navy remained non-operational from 2014 to 2019 due to defective engines for extended periods, a parliamentary committee said in its report on Wednesday. The report, issued by the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), also criticized the Navy for delays in deploying officers for the Special Prahari Bal (SPB), despite a significant lapse of 12 years since its approval in 2009. The SPB is a maritime force established in the aftermath of the 2008 Mumbai terror attack, with the primary objective of providing security to coastal and offshore naval assets through patrolling using FICs.
The PAC report highlighted the delays in the procurement and operational availability of the FICs, stating that their delivery was postponed due to issues with the selection and subsequent replacements of waterjets. As a result, the introduction of FICs was delayed by up to 61 months beyond the sanctioned timeline. The report also emphasized that complete deployment of officers for the SPB has not been achieved, despite more than a decade since its approval. Furthermore, the committee noted that numerous FICs were non-operational between 2014 and 2019 due to defective engines, which were not repaired or maintained during certain periods.
In response to these findings, the PAC recommended that the Navy adopt a systematic approach to ensure timely repairs and maintenance by concluding annual maintenance contracts well in advance. Additionally, the committee called for a comprehensive review of the SPB’s functioning to enhance future preparedness in light of evolving security threats. The report also mentioned the issue of defective and sub-optimal Optical Surveillance Equipment (OSS) on the FICs, with several cameras being only partially operational.
The Special Prahari Bal was established with a complement of 1,000 personnel, including officers, senior sailors, and junior sailors, to be stationed at 13 Indian naval ports. The security scenario has undergone significant changes since its sanction in 2009, necessitating continuous upgrades to ensure effective security measures.
The delays and issues highlighted in the PAC report raise concerns about the Navy’s ability to provide adequate security to coastal and offshore naval assets. The efficient functioning of the SPB and the availability of operationally sound FICs are essential for safeguarding Indian maritime interests. It is imperative that the Navy takes prompt action to address the shortcomings and implement the recommendations put forth by the committee.
