Defence Ministry Signs Contract For 06 Air Cushion Vehicles (06 ACVS) For ICG
New Delhi, 24 Oct 24: Ministry of Defence (MoD) signed a major contract with Chowgule& Company Pvt. Ltd (CCPL), entering into an agreement for acquisition of 06 Air Cushion Vehicles (06 ACVs) on 24 Oct 2024. These amphibious vessels, also called as “Hovercrafts”, will be indigenously manufactured in India for the first timein lines of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, representing a pivotal step in the nation’s shipping landscape. The contract of ACVs which is categorized under Buy (Indian) Category and will be delivered in 33 months stands as a testament to growing capability and innovation within India’s shipbuilding industry.
This contract, representing a cutting-edge technological advancement, stands as a pioneering commitment to the Naya Bharat initiatives, embodying a forward-thinking approach to innovation and modernization in pursuit of a progressive nation.
It is poised to significantly enhance indigenous manufacturing capabilities, elevate technical expertise and catalyse maritime economic activity while also fostering the growth of ancillary industries, especially the MSME sector. The visionary step promises not only to contribute to the nation’s self-reliance but also strengthens its position on the global stage as a hub of technological excellence and industrial prowess opening a new avenue for employment opportunities.
The integration of Comprehensive Maintenance Contract into the project is strategically designed to foster the development and sustainability of a robust ecosystem for ACV maintenance in India. This initiative aims to stimulate the growth of indigenous ancillary industries, further enhancing the nation’s self-sufficiency. Through this effort, a foundation will be laid for long-term progress in the maritime sector, encouraging innovation and domestic production.
These modern Air Cushion Vehicles will be used for multipurpose maritime roles including high speed coastal patrolling and reconnaissance in shallow waters, marshy areas, deep sea and interception/interdiction in areas of operation by both day/night and search and rescue operations, rendering assistance to ships, crafts and ACVs in distress.
Along with several high tech advanced features and equipment, these Air Cushion Vehicles would also be capable ofcarrying personnel, stores and logistics evenin shallow watersenabling greater flexibility and operational edge to the Coast Guard to face new age multidimensional challenges. The acquisition of these platforms is aimed to boost the Coast Guard’s capability and reinforces the increased focus of GoI towards maritime security.
