PM Modi hands over Made-in-India patrol vessel to Seychelles, boosts maritime security partnership
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday handed over the Made-in-India Fast Patrol Vessel (FPV) PS LESPWAR to the Seychelles Coast Guard, reaffirming India's commitment to strengthening maritime security and defence cooperation in the Indian Ocean region. The handover took place during Modi's three-day State Visit to Seychelles, where he is attending the island nation's Golden Jubilee National Day celebrations as the Guest of Honour.
The vessel was presented to Seychelles President Patrick Herminie during a ceremony at the Seychelles Coast Guard Base in Victoria. Built by Goa Shipyard Limited, the high-speed patrol vessel is designed to enhance Seychelles' maritime surveillance capabilities and improve patrolling across its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
Apart from the patrol vessel, India also handed over six ambulances, 10 utility vehicles and five laser radial boats to support Seychelles' security and developmental needs. The assistance reflects New Delhi's broader commitment to capacity building and strategic cooperation with the Indian Ocean island nation.
Sharing details of the event on X, Prime Minister Modi said the transfer of PS LESPWAR marks another milestone in the growing India-Seychelles partnership in defence and maritime security. He added that the initiative demonstrates India's steadfast commitment to supporting Seychelles' security priorities and strengthening regional maritime capabilities.
According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the vessel will significantly improve Seychelles' ability to monitor its vast maritime domain and safeguard its EEZ. The ministry said the assistance is aligned with India's Vision MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions), which aims to promote peace, stability and sustainable development across the Indian Ocean region.
Modi's visit to Seychelles is expected to further deepen bilateral ties, with discussions focusing on defence cooperation, maritime security, trade, development partnership and regional connectivity. The visit also marks five decades of diplomatic relations between India and Seychelles, underscoring the strategic importance of the partnership.
