The Indian Coast Guard has commenced construction of its first indigenously built Air Cushion Vehicle at Chowgule & Company Pvt. Ltd. in Goa, marking a significant milestone in India’s maritime security capabilities. The Girder Laying and Commencement of Erection ceremony was held on July 30, 2025, with Inspector General Sudhir Sahni, Deputy Director General (Materiel & Maintenance), in attendance.
The hovercraft are based on proven Griffon Hoverwork designs and are being adapted with Indian expertise to meet the diverse operational needs of coastal security. Once inducted, these Air Cushion Vehicles will enhance the Coast Guard’s ability to conduct high-speed patrolling, interdiction, and search and rescue missions in shallow waters along India’s extensive maritime frontier.
This initiative follows a contract signed with the Ministry of Defence on October 24, 2024, for the construction of six ACVs. The project reflects the Coast Guard’s commitment to operational self-reliance under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative and is expected to significantly boost tactical flexibility and rapid response capabilities in coastal zones.
