Fast Patrol Vessel (FPV) ‘Achal’ was commissioned into the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) on Saturday, enhancing the maritime force’s operational capabilities, officials announced.
‘Achal’ is the fifth vessel in a series of eight FPVs being constructed by Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL) for the coast guard. This new-generation Adamya-class vessel was commissioned at GSL’s facility in Goa, marking a significant enhancement in capabilities, according to a spokesperson.
The commissioning ceremony was conducted by A Anbarasu, additional secretary and director general (acquisition) at the Ministry of Defence, in the presence of Inspector General Tekur Sashi Kumar, Commander of Coast Guard Region (North West), along with senior officials from the central and state governments and GSL representatives.
The vessel will be stationed at Vadinar, Gujarat, operating under the administrative and operational control of the Commander of Coast Guard Region (North West). Its mission profile includes a range of operations such as surveillance, interdiction, search and rescue (SAR), anti-smuggling efforts, and pollution response, thus reinforcing the ICG’s commitment to safeguarding India’s eastern maritime frontier.
‘The ship is commanded by Commandant (JG) Naveen Kumar, supported by five officers and 34 personnel, all trained to operate advanced systems and respond to a full spectrum of maritime contingencies,’ the ICG stated.
The name ‘Achal,’ meaning “firm,” reflects the coast guard’s dedication. “This commissioning epitomizes vigilance, resilience, and the unwavering spirit of guardianship over India’s maritime domain. ‘Achal’ will protect national interests and uphold public trust with steadfast dedication,” the ICG spokesperson noted.
Launched in June 2025, the 51-meter vessel sets a new benchmark in indigenous shipbuilding, according to the spokesperson. With over 50% of its components sourced domestically, ‘Achal’ highlights India’s strides toward defense self-reliance and underscores the synergies between the coast guard’s operational vision and the government’s Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India initiatives.
The vessel features modern design principles aimed at efficiency, endurance, and rapid response capabilities. Equipped with two 3000 kW advanced diesel engines, it reaches a top speed of 27 knots and has an operational endurance of 1,500 nautical miles, allowing for extended missions within India’s maritime zones.
Incorporating indigenously developed controllable pitch propellers and high-precision gearboxes, ‘Achal’ offers enhanced handling and “mission adaptability across various sea states.” The ship is armed with a 30 mm CRN-91 gun and two 12.7 mm stabilised remote-controlled guns, bolstered by advanced target acquisition and fire-control systems.
A suite of integrated technologies, including an Integrated Bridge System, Integrated Machinery Control System, and Automated Power Management System, enhances situational awareness, reliability, and operational efficiency, the ICG noted.
The commissioning of ICGS Achal represents a step forward in the service’s fleet expansion and will significantly contribute to strengthening coastal security, enhancing operational readiness, and fulfilling the coast guard’s responsibilities in the North West Region.
Published on May 9, 2026.
