Goa Shipyard Initiates Construction of Indigenous Hovercraft for Indian Coast Guard

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In a significant stride toward bolstering maritime security and self-reliance, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has commenced the construction of its first indigenously built Air Cushion Vehicle (ACV), commonly known as a hovercraft. The momentous girder-laying ceremony, which marks the start of the project’s erection phase, was held on July 30, 2025, at the Chowgule and Company Pvt. Ltd. shipyard in Goa. This pivotal project, which falls under the ‘Buy (Indian)’ category, is part of a larger contract signed with the Ministry of Defence on October 24, 2024, for the acquisition of six such amphibious vessels. The initiative underscores the ICG’s commitment to the nation’s “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” (self-reliant India) vision.

The construction of these ACVs is a landmark achievement, as it is the first time an Indian shipyard is building hovercrafts for the military. The vessels, based on proven designs from Griffon Hoverwork (UK), will be customized with Indian expertise to suit a wide range of coastal security operations. Once inducted, these hovercrafts will provide the ICG with enhanced speed, tactical flexibility, and the ability to operate effectively in shallow waters. This will enable swift response for patrolling, interdiction, and search and rescue missions along India’s vast maritime frontier.

According to a Ministry of Defence statement, the ceremony was attended by Inspector General Sudhir Sahni, Deputy Director General (Materiel & Maintenance) of the ICG, along with other senior officials. The project is expected to significantly enhance India’s maritime response capabilities by allowing the Coast Guard to navigate difficult terrains, including marshy areas and coastlines that are inaccessible to conventional patrol boats.

The contract for the six hovercrafts is valued at Rs 387.44 crore. The project is expected to be delivered within a 33-month timeframe, with the first vessel slated for delivery in 18 months. This initiative not only strengthens the ICG’s operational readiness but also provides a major boost to the domestic shipbuilding industry. The project is expected to create jobs and foster technical expertise within the country, further reinforcing India’s growing capabilities in high-technology defense platforms. The success of this indigenous hovercraft project will set a new precedent for future defense acquisitions and manufacturing within the country.