NEWS: The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) inducted the first of six indigenously built Air Cushion Vehicles (ACVs) in Goa to strengthen coastal security and rapid-response operations.

ABOUT

• Air Cushion Vehicle (ACV)à Commonly known as a hovercraft, is an amphibious vehicle that travels over water, mudflats, marshes, sand, and shallow coastal areas.
• Operates on a high-pressure cushion of air trapped beneath the hull by a flexible rubber skirt.
• Developed indigenously by Chowgule & Company Private Limited.
• Designed to enhance coastal surveillance, search and rescue, disaster response, and maritime law enforcement.

KEY FEATURES

• Amphibious Capabilityà Seamlessly operates on sea, mudflats, creeks, and beaches.
• Zero Draft Designà Can access shallow waters where conventional vessels cannot operate.
• Advanced Systemsà Equipped with marine radar, thermal imaging, and secure communication systems.
• Optimized Payloadà Can carry boarding teams, rescue personnel, and emergency equipment.
• Indigenous Fleetà First of six ACVs planned for induction into the Indian Coast Guard.

SIGNIFICANCE

• Strengthens surveillance in sensitive coastal regions such as Rann of Kutch and Sundarbans.
• Enhances capability against smuggling, illegal infiltration, and maritime crimes.
• Enables rapid rescue and relief operations during cyclones, floods, and coastal emergencies.
• Supports India's maritime security and coastal defence architecture.