Tech Desk: India’s maritime defense capabilities have received a significant boost with Chowgule Shipbuilding’s delivery of the second Indigenous Air Cushion Vehicle, ICG H-562, to the Indian Coast Guard. This crucial handover, following ICG H-561 just three months prior, underscores a major leap in domestic defense manufacturing and national self-reliance.

The Goa-based shipyard demonstrated exceptional efficiency, delivering both hovercraft within contractual timelines. Notably, ICG H-562 exceeded its contracted maximum speed of 45 knots during trials, showcasing superior engineering. This project is part of a landmark ₹38,744 Lakhs ($40 million) Ministry of Defence contract for six 8,000TD Indigenous Air Cushion Vehicles, marking the first-ever order for such craft to be built entirely in India for the Coast Guard.

These specialized vessels are engineered for seamless operation in shallow, marshy, and inter-tidal waters, areas inaccessible to conventional vessels. Their deployment will significantly enhance coastal surveillance, patrol, high-speed interception, and search-and-rescue missions along India’s vast coastline. By localizing production, the initiative aligns perfectly with ‘Make in India’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ policies, fostering a robust local industrial supply chain and cultivating specialized engineering skills within the country.

With four more hovercraft in advanced stages of construction, this project not only bolsters national waters but also strengthens India’s strategic maritime ecosystem through indigenous innovation and technical collaboration. The successful delivery of ICG H-562 highlights India’s growing prowess in designing and building complex vessels for challenging inter-tidal environments.