Indigenously built 5th fast patrol vessel Atal launched for Coast Guard

Goa Shipyard Ltd (GSL), a premier Defence Public Sector Undertaking (DPSU), launched the fifth of eight Fast Patrol Vessels (FPVs) being built for the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) on Tuesday.

The vessel, named ATAL, was launched in the presence of Rozy Agarwal, IDAS, PIFA, Coast Guard Headquarters, who graced the occasion as the chief guest.

The ceremony, held amid traditional chants from the Atharva Veda, was also attended by Inspector General Sudhir Sahni, TM, DDG (M&M), and other senior officials from the Coast Guard and GSL.

In his address, Rozy Agarwal highlighted that the vessel is a product of indigenous design and construction by GSL, tailored to meet the operational needs of the Coast Guard.

The 52-metre-long vessel, with a beam of 8 metres and a displacement of 320 tonnes, is equipped to perform coastal patrol, surveillance, anti-smuggling, anti-piracy, and search and rescue operations. It will play a crucial role in safeguarding fishermen, island territories, and India’s Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZ).

The project significantly contributes to the national goal of self-reliance, or Atmanirbharta, in defence manufacturing. It has generated employment and business opportunities for local industries, MSMEs, and entrepreneurs, with much of the production involving local participation.

The Chief Guest lauded the Indian Coast Guard and GSL for their dedication to fulfilling indigenous shipbuilding requirements and achieving a key milestone in India’s maritime security and defence preparedness.

The launch of ATAL stands as a testament to India’s growing capabilities in indigenous shipbuilding and GSL’s continued commitment to delivering advanced, homegrown vessels for national security.

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