ICG inducts six hovercrafts to bolster maritime capabilities

The first of the six hovercraft being built by a firm for the Indian Coast Guard (ICG), which aims to enhance its operational effectiveness across a broad spectrum of maritime duties and reinforce its ability to respond to emerging challenges, was inducted into service on Thursday, officials said.

The air cushion vehicle has been designed and constructed in India and reflects the growing strength of the nation's maritime industrial base, they said.

In a significant milestone towards strengthening the ICG's capabilities and advancing the national vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, the first indigenously constructed air cushion vehicle (ACV), H-561, was inducted into service on June 18 at Chowgule & Company Private Limited, Goa, the force said.

“The hovercraft aims to enhance ICG’s operational effectiveness across a broad spectrum of maritime duties and reinforce its ability to respond to emerging challenges. Its induction would further the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat and serve as a reflection of the growing strength of the maritime industrial base of the country,” it said.

The induction ceremony was held at the shipyard’s Rassaim facility in the presence of senior officials of the ICG and representatives from the shipbuilding industry.