Coast Guard Chief Stresses Indigenization as Strategic Imperative for Maritime Security
In a significant address, Indian Coast Guard (ICG) Director General Paramesh Sivamani declared that indigenization is a critical strategic necessity, directly impacting operational preparedness, technological self-reliance, and the broader framework of national maritime security. Speaking on Friday in Goa, he underscored the ICG's unwavering commitment to integrating equipment and systems designed, developed, and manufactured within India.
New Manufacturing Facility Inaugurated in Goa
Sivamani made these remarks while inaugurating a new manufacturing facility for waterjet propulsion systems, which are essential components for coast guard vessels. This facility, established by MJP, a Sweden-based firm specializing in waterjet propulsion for high-speed naval, coast guard, and commercial vessels, marks the company's first production and testing site in India. MJP selected Goa due to its strategic proximity to major ports in Mumbai and Kochi, positioning India as its third global venture after the United States and South Korea.
Sivamani described this development as a new chapter in India-Sweden collaboration, noting that MJP has supplied waterjets for ICG interceptor boats since 2010, with over 100 systems currently in active service. An additional 42 waterjet propulsion systems are being installed on fast patrol vessels at Mazagon Docks in Mumbai, further enhancing the coast guard's fleet capabilities.
Advancing Indigenous Hovercraft Production
In a related move, Sivamani visited the Chowgule & Company shipyard in Goa to review the manufacturing progress of six indigenously built air cushion vessels, commonly known as hovercrafts, for the ICG. This project is notable as India's first hovercraft manufacturing initiative with 50% indigenous content, utilizing marine-grade aluminum. The first delivery is scheduled for May 2026, which is expected to significantly boost the force's rapid response capabilities in maritime operations.
Operational Benefits of Indigenous Manufacturing
The ICG chief highlighted several key advantages of indigenous manufacturing, including:
- Faster availability of spare parts
- Reduced dependence on overseas supply chains
- Significant reduction in maintenance time and lifecycle costs
Collectively, these benefits will translate into enhanced operational efficiency and asset readiness, Sivamani emphasized, reinforcing the strategic importance of self-reliance in defense technology.
Goa's Role in Supporting Maritime Infrastructure
Commending the state government of Goa for its proactive support, Sivamani praised the rapid assistance provided to the coast guard. He noted that Goa is on a path to establishing essential facilities to support the ICG and armed forces, citing the presence of Goa Shipyard and the new MJP facility as key contributors. These developments will ensure sustained patrol and operational capabilities in the maritime domain, he added, underscoring the state's growing importance in India's defense infrastructure.
