Defense Ministry signs contract with Mazagon Dock for 14 FPV

The Defence Ministry signed the contract with Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited, Mumbai, on January 24, 2024 for the acquisition of 14 fast patrol boats for the Indian Coast Guard.

Contract worth Rs 1070.47 crore with Mazagon Dock (MDL):

• For this, a contract worth Rs 1070.47 crore has been signed between both parties.
• These multi-role fast patrol boats will be indigenously designed, developed and manufactured by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited under the sale category.
• These will be handed over by Mazagon Dock in a total of 63 months.

About Fast Patrol Vessel (FPV):

• The FPV will be equipped with many high-tech, advanced features and equipment. Mainly among these are as follows:
  • Drone
  • Wireless Controlled Remote Water Rescue Craft Lifebuoy
  • Artificial Intelligence Capability
• These facilities will make the Indian Coast Guard more capable of facing the multidimensional challenges of the modern era. Also, this will enable ICG to achieve better operational efficiency.

Use of fast patrol ships:

• FPVs can be used as communications and escort platforms during hostile and wartime situations. These modern fast patrol boats can be used in the following areas:
  • Fisheries
  • security and surveillance
  • control and monitoring
  • anti-trafficking campaign
  • Search and rescue operations in places including shallow water
  • Assistance to ships or boats in distress
  • increased towing capabilities
  • Marine Pollution Response Operations
  • Assistance and surveillance during anti-piracy operations

Objectives of the acquisition of FPV:

• The acquisition of these fast patrol vessels is aimed at boosting the capabilities of the Indian Coast Guard. At the same time, the government's growing efforts towards maritime security have to be further expanded.

Benefits of this:

• This contract will expand the country's indigenous warship manufacturing capacity in line with 'Atmanirbhar Bharat'.
• Marine economic activities will get a boost.
• This will accelerate the development of supporting industries, especially the micro, small and medium enterprise sectors. This project will effectively generate growth through employment opportunities and expertise in the country.