NEW DELHI – The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) is set to receive a boost in its capabilities as the defense ministry signs a Rs 1,614-crore deal with Mazagon Dockyard Shipbuilders Ltd. for the procurement of six AI-enhanced offshore patrol vessels. These state-of-the-art ships, aimed at reinforcing maritime security, will replace aging vessels and augment the current ICG fleet.
The acquisition of these next-generation vessels under the Buy (Indian-IDDM) category marks the government’s commitment to enhancing the ICG’s functionality. With a focus on surveillance, law enforcement, search and rescue operations, and maritime pollution response, these 115m OPVs are equipped with cutting-edge features and equipment, including multipurpose drones, AI capability, and wirelessly controlled remote water rescue craft lifebuoys. These advancements provide the ICG with greater flexibility and an operational edge to tackle multidimensional challenges.
The Indian Coast Guard’s new patrol vessels will significantly enhance our surveillance and response capabilities. We are dedicated to safeguarding our maritime border and ensuring the safety and security of our seas, said an official from the Coast Guard.
The six offshore patrol vessels, designed, developed, and manufactured by MDL in Mumbai, will be delivered within the next six years. These vessels not only strengthen the Indian Coast Guard’s fleet but also highlight the nation’s commitment to self-reliance in defense manufacturing.
The maritime security landscape has witnessed rapid changes in recent years, with emerging challenges that require adaptable and technologically advanced solutions. The induction of AI-enhanced patrol vessels will provide the Indian Coast Guard with the necessary tools to address these challenges effectively.
The new vessels will not only bolster surveillance and security but also assist in humanitarian efforts such as humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations. The Indian Coast Guard has been instrumental in providing aid and support during times of natural disasters, and the addition of these vessels will further enhance their capabilities in such missions.
The procurement of these offshore patrol vessels marks a significant milestone in India’s pursuit of self-reliance in defense manufacturing. By investing in indigenous design and production, the country aims to strengthen its defense sector while reducing dependency on external suppliers.
As India actively seeks to secure its maritime domain, these AI-enhanced patrol vessels signify the nation’s commitment to safeguarding its seas and ensuring the safety of its waters. The modernization of the Indian Coast Guard’s fleet with these advanced vessels stands as a testament to the government’s dedication to strengthening maritime security in the region.
