Centre Signs ₹1,614-Crore Deal for 6 Next-Gen Patrol Vessels with Drones and AI Tech for Coast Guard

The Indian defense ministry has inked a ₹1,614-crore contract with Mazagon Dockyard Shipbuilders Ltd for the procurement of six next-generation offshore patrol vessels for the Indian Coast Guard (ICG). Aimed at enhancing maritime security, the acquisition will replace four aging offshore patrol vessels and add two vessels to the Coast Guard’s fleet.

The vessels will feature advanced equipment, multipurpose drones, AI capabilities, and wirelessly controlled remote water rescue craft lifebuoys, providing increased flexibility and operational efficiency. The new platforms will play a crucial role in surveillance, law enforcement, search and rescue, and maritime pollution response, among other capabilities.