Defence Ministry Signs ₹387.44 Crore Contract for Six Air Cushion Vehicles for Indian Coast Guard

In a significant boost to India’s maritime security capabilities, the Ministry of Defence announced on Thursday that it has signed a contract with Chowgule & Company Pvt. Ltd., based in Goa, for the procurement of six Air Cushion Vehicles (ACVs) for the Indian Coast Guard. The total cost of the deal stands at ₹387.44 crore.

These advanced amphibious vessels, commonly referred to as ‘Hovercrafts’, will be manufactured domestically for the first time, aligning with the government’s ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative aimed at promoting self-reliance in defence manufacturing. The ministry emphasized that this project not only contributes to national security but also strengthens the indigenous manufacturing ecosystem, particularly benefiting the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector.

The newly procured ACVs are designed for a variety of multipurpose maritime operations, including high-speed coastal patrolling, reconnaissance, interception, search and rescue missions, and providing assistance to ships and crafts in distress. This procurement is seen as a crucial enhancement of the Indian Coast Guard’s operational capabilities, further reinforcing the country’s commitment to safeguarding its maritime interests.

The Defence Ministry’s decision reflects an increased focus on bolstering maritime security and ensuring the effective operational readiness of the Indian Coast Guard in Indian waters.