The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has commenced the construction of its first indigenously built Air Cushion Vehicle (ACV) with the Girder Laying and Commencement of Erection ceremony held at Chowgule & Company Pvt. Ltd. in Goa on July 30, 2025. Based on proven Griffon Hoverwork designs, these hovercraft are being developed using Indian expertise to meet the diverse requirements of coastal security operations.
Once commissioned, the ACVs will enhance the ICG’s operational capabilities by offering greater speed, tactical versatility, and the ability to operate in shallow waters—facilitating rapid response for patrolling, interdiction, and search and rescue missions along India’s extensive maritime coastline.
The ceremony marked a significant milestone in strengthening India’s maritime defence infrastructure and was attended by Inspector General Sudhir Sahni, Deputy Director General (Materiel & Maintenance) of the ICG. This development follows a contract signed with the Ministry of Defence on October 24, 2024, for the construction of six ACVs, highlighting the Coast Guard’s commitment to self-reliance under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.