Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL), a Defence Public Sector Undertaking, handed over ICGS Akshar (Yard 1276) to the Indian Coast Guard on September 18, 2025, in Panaji.
The vessel is the second in a series of eight Fast Patrol Vessels being built under the Government of India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan.
The ceremony included the First Reading Ceremony and the formal handover.
ICGS Akshar measures 51.43 meters in length and 8 meters in breadth, with a displacement of 330 tons at a draught of 2.5 meters. It is powered by twin marine diesel engines driving controllable pitch propellers, introduced for the first time in this class of vessels.
The ship can reach speeds of more than 27 knots and has an endurance of 1,500 nautical miles. It is equipped with an integrated machinery control system.
The vessel will be operated by six officers and 35 sailors. It is designed for fisheries protection, Exclusive Economic Zone surveillance, coastal patrol, anti-smuggling, anti-piracy, and search and rescue missions.
Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL) is a public sector shipbuilding company under the Ministry of Defence, Government of India. Established in 1957, it is headquartered in Vasco da Gama, Goa, and specializes in building naval and coast guard vessels, offshore patrol vessels, and fast patrol vessels. Indian Coast Guard: The Indian Coast Guard is an armed force under the Ministry of Defence, Government of India. It is responsible for maritime law enforcement, coastal security, search and rescue operations, and protection of India’s Exclusive Economic Zone.
