Indian Coast Guard gets fast patrol vessel 'Atal' for guarding India's coastal borders

The Indian Coast Guard’s sixth indigenously built Fast Patrol Vessel (FPV), ‘Atal’, was launched today at Goa Shipyard Ltd (GSL), Goa. The vessel was launched by Smt. Shilpa Agarwal in the presence of Shri Rozy Agarwal, IDAS, PIFA, Coast Guard Headquarters. The launch marks a significant milestone in India’s pursuit of self-reliance in defence manufacturing. ‘Atal’ will enhance the Indian Coast Guard’s operational capabilities in coastal security, anti-smuggling efforts, and maritime rescue operations. It is the sixth vessel in a fleet of eight FPVs being built by GSL for the Indian Coast Guard under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

Features of 'Atal' fast patrol vessel

With over 60% indigenous content, these state-of-the-art vessels are designed in-house by GSL to meet the Coast Guard’s specific operational needs. The FPVs measure 52 meters in length, displace 320 tonnes, and are equipped for diverse roles including fisheries protection, patrolling the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), and monitoring island territories.

They are also capable of anti-smuggling, anti-piracy, and search and rescue operations. Significantly, this is the first time in India that an FPV is being constructed with a controllable pitch propeller, improving propulsion efficiency and maneuverability. The project contributes to local economic growth by generating employment and supporting MSMEs and associated industries.


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Indian Coast Guard’s fleet size and future plans

From modest beginnings in 1977 with just seven surface platforms, the Indian Coast Guard has grown into a major maritime force, currently operating 151 ships and 76 aircraft. By 2030, it is expected to reach its target strength of 200 ships and 100 aircraft, positioning it among the world’s leading coast guard services.

Operating under the motto ‘Vayam Rakshamah’ (We Protect), the ICG has saved more than 11,730 lives since inception, including 169 in the past year alone. It maintains round-the-clock vigilance with daily deployment of 55–60 surface platforms and 10–12 aircraft across the 4.6 million sq km Indian Search and Rescue Region.

Operational impact and maritime security efforts

Beyond search and rescue, the ICG has played a critical role in maritime law enforcement, having seized contraband worth ₹52,560.96 crore to date. This includes a record haul of 6,016 kilograms of narcotics in the Andaman Sea.

Its disaster response operations include key efforts during Cyclone ASNA in Gujarat, flood relief in Gujarat and Wayanad, and complex night-time medical evacuations. The ICG also serves as India’s designated authority for oil spill response, conducting national and regional-level pollution response exercises to enhance maritime environmental protection and preparedness.