In News:

The Indian Coast Guard Ship (ICGS) Akshar, the second vessel in a series of eight Adamya-class Fast Patrol Vessels (FPVs), was commissioned at Karaikal, Puducherry. Built by Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL), this indigenously designed vessel represents a major stride in India’s maritime self-reliance under the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ and ‘Make in India’ initiatives.

About ICGS Akshar

• Class and Type:Adamya-class Fast Patrol Vessel (FPV)
• Shipbuilder: Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL)
• Indigenous Content: Over 60%
• Length: 51 metres
• Displacement: Approximately 320 tonnes
• Name Significance: ‘Akshar’, meaning imperishable, signifies the Indian Coast Guard’s unwavering resolve to ensure safe, secure, and clean seas.

Key Technical and Operational Features

• Propulsion System:Equipped with two 3,000 kW diesel engines driving indigenously developed Controllable Pitch Propellers (CPP) and gearboxes, the vessel can achieve a maximum speed of 27 knots.
• Endurance:Capable of operating up to 1,500 nautical miles at an economical cruising speed, enabling extended surveillance missions.
• Weapons and Defence Systems:Armed with a 30 mm CRN 91 gun and two 12.7 mm Stabilised Remote-Controlled Guns (SRCG), integrated with an advanced Fire Control System, enhancing accuracy and combat effectiveness.
• Automation and Navigation Systems:Features an Integrated Bridge System (IBS), Integrated Platform Management System (IPMS), and Automated Power Management System (APMS) for high operational efficiency, reduced human intervention, and seamless information integration.
• Deployment:The vessel will be based at Karaikal, Puducherry, under the administrative and operational control of the Commander, Coast Guard Region (East) through District Headquarters No. 13.

Strategic Role and Functions

ICGS Akshar will be deployed for:

• Maritime surveillance and coastal security operations in India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
• Anti-smuggling, anti-poaching, and anti-piracy operations.
• Search and Rescue (SAR) missions, pollution control, and law enforcement duties in the maritime domain.

Its operational flexibility and advanced systems make it a multi-role platform capable of responding swiftly to emerging maritime threats and humanitarian contingencies.