India's First Locally Built Hovercraft Embarks on Construction

The Indian Coast Guard has commenced the construction of its first indigenously built hovercraft, marking a significant milestone in India's defense capabilities. The ceremony took place on Wednesday at Chowgule & Company Pvt. Ltd. in Goa.

Designed based on proven Griffon Hoverwork models, the hovercraft will enhance the Coast Guard's operational scope, primarily for coastal security purposes. The Defense Ministry emphasized that these vehicles would be critical for tactical flexibility, offering rapid response capabilities for patrolling, interdiction, and search operations across the country's extensive maritime boundary.

Attending the event, Deputy Director General (Materiel & Maintenance), ICG Inspector General Sudhir Sahni highlighted the strategic importance of the project. The initiative is part of a contract with the Defense Ministry, ensuring six such amphibious vessels under the 'Buy (Indian)' category, showcasing India's drive towards self-reliance under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

(With inputs from agencies.)