Indian Coast Guard takes delivery of 15th FPV from Cochin Shipyard

Cochin Shipyard has delivered the 15th fast patrol vessel (FPV), ICGS Arinjay, to the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) as part of a $338m contract awarded in 2010.

It follows the delivery of ICGS Apoorva, the 14th of 20 FPVs, in July.

The contract requires the shipyard to construction of 20 FPVs to help ICG enhance its capabilities to address future maritime security challenges.

ICGS Arinjay will be operated from the Coast Guard Station at Okha, Gujarat.

The 50m-long FPV, propelled by triple Rolls-Royce Kamewa 71S3np water jets, can operate in shallow waters and offer higher speeds and better manoeuvrability than conventional propellers.

The new vessel can be used to execute missions including anti-smuggling, anti-piracy, fisheries protection & monitoring, search & rescue operations, patrolling within exclusive economic zone (EEZ) and coastal patrol.

It can also provide a communication link, and escort coastal convoys, in times of hostilities and war.

ICGS Arinjay is equipped with a long range gun and ultra-modern vessel control, navigation and communication tools.

The use of aluminium for construction of superstructure of these ships, accompanied by some latest welding and fabrication skills is aimed at maintaining the vessel’s speed in coastal security missions.

Prior to ICGS Arinjay, Cochin Shipyard launched ICGS Anmol, ICGS Apoorva, ICGS Arnvesh and ICGS Arush this year.