The first of the six indigenous Air Cushion Vehicles (ACVs), being constructed by Chowgule & Company Private Limited for the Indian Coast Guard (ICG), was inducted into service in Goa on 18 June 2026. The hovercraft aims to enhance ICG’s operational effectiveness across a broad spectrum of maritime duties and reinforce its ability to respond to emerging challenges. Its induction would further the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, and serve as a reflection of the growing strength of the maritime industrial base of the country.

The induction ceremony was held in the presence of senior ICG officials and representatives from the shipbuilding industry. The induction underscores the organisation’s continued focus on modernisation and capability enhancement in support of its mandate to safeguard the nation’s maritime interests. The contract for the acquisition of six ACVs for ICG was signed between the MoD and Chowgule & Company Private Limited on 24 October 2026.