Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL) recently launched two indigenously built fast patrol vessels (FPVs) – Adamya and Akshar – designed to enhance the Indian Coast Guard's capabilities in safeguarding offshore assets and island territories, and conducting crucial surveillance operations. The vessels were ceremonially launched by Priya Paramesh, wife of Indian Coast Guard Director General Paramesh Sivamani, accompanied by the reverent chanting of verses from the Atharva Veda. Built in-house by GSL, these advanced FPVs are meticulously crafted to fulfill the Coast Guard's specialised operational requirements, underscoring India's progress in indigenous maritime defence technology.

The newly launched vessels, with a length of 52 meters, a breadth of 8 meters, and a displacement of 320 tonnes, are optimised to enhance the Indian Coast Guard's capability in protecting offshore assets, securing island territories, and performing critical surveillance operations. Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL) is constructing a fleet of eight such fast patrol vessels (FPVs) for the Indian Coast Guard, marking a significant step toward achieving the nation's 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' vision in defence production.

During the launch ceremony, Director General Paramesh Sivamani highlighted the resilient partnership between the Indian Coast Guard and GSL. He commended their ability to navigate complex challenges, including those posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and global geopolitical disruptions, while continuing to advance India's self-reliance in defence technology.

"This launch epitomises the resilience and ingenuity of GSL, achieved in close collaboration with Indian industry," he said.

Emphasising the vessels' indigenous content, Director General Paramesh Sivamani noted that these FPVs embody the spirit of the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' initiative, showcasing India's commitment to self-reliance in defence production. GSL Chairman and Managing Director Brajesh Kumar Upadhyay also spoke at the event, underscoring the shipyard's remarkable growth. GSL has doubled its gross revenue, surpassing the Rs 2,000 crore milestone, a testament to its expanding role in advancing India's defence capabilities and economic resilience.

"GSL has consistently outperformed its past achievements, embracing cutting-edge technologies and transformative policies to become one of India's foremost shipbuilders with indigenous capabilities," he said.

Upadhyay credited GSL's success to its unwavering focus on innovation, modernisation, and a dynamic partnership with the Indian Coast Guard, which has consistently enhanced the nation's operational readiness and bolstered national security. The keels for the FPVs Adamya and Akshar were laid by Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane on August 25, 2023. Notably, this launch marked a milestone in GSL’s history as, for the first time, two vessels were launched simultaneously, and utilizing the shipyard’s advanced ship-lift system— a testament to GSL's modernisation efforts.

The ceremony was attended by Coast Guard Inspector General H. K. Sharma, along with prominent figures from the defence and maritime sectors, highlighting the collaborative spirit that drives India’s defence initiatives forward.