Indian Coast Guard receives sixth fast patrol vessel

The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has taken delivery of sixth of the series of 20 Fast Patrol Vessels (FPVs) being built by the Cochin Shipyard.

The delivery is part of a contract that was awarded in 2010 for the construction of the 20 FPVs. The new ‘CGS AGRIM’ FPV will be operated by the Coast Guard Station in Mumbai.

AGRIM will be propelled by water jets powered by three 2720 KW Main Engines that comply with dual classification requirements of ABS and IRS, and offers a cruise speed of 33k.

Despite being small in terms of size compared to large vessels, the 50m long AGRIM assists in supporting the ICG’s anti smuggling, anti piracy operations, fisheries protection and monitoring missions.

In addition, FPVs are also capable of offering communication link and escort convoys during hostilities and wartime.

In a bid to maintain the vessel’s speed in coastal security operations, the company used aluminium to build superstructure of these ships, while some latest welding and fabrication skills were deployed to build these vessels.

The Cochin yard is also building the Indian Navy’s indigenous aircraft carrier; as well as an Offshore Support Vessel for Norwegian owner and a Buoy Tender Vessel for Directorate of Light Houses and Light Ships, Indian Government.