HSL Bags Rs 3,000-Cr Contract To Build 18 Coast Guard Patrol Vessels
This order marks a significant milestone for HSL in the patrol vessel segment and reinforces its expanding capabilities in indigenous defence shipbuilding.
Visakhapatnam: In a major boost to indigenous defence shipbuilding, Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL) has won a competitive contract worth around Rs 3,000 crore to construct 18 Next Generation Fast Patrol Vessels (FPVs) for the Indian Coast Guard, official sources said on Monday.
Six shipyards participated in the tender process, reflecting strong industry interest. Following detailed technical and commercial evaluations, HSL’s bid was adjudged the most competitive.
The vessels will be indigenously designed and built, in line with the government’s Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative and its push for domestic defence manufacturing. The contract is expected to be signed in the coming months. Construction of the first vessel will take 30 months, with subsequent ships to be delivered at four-month intervals.
This order marks a significant milestone for HSL in the patrol vessel segment and reinforces its expanding capabilities in indigenous defence shipbuilding.
The FPVs are medium-range, weapon-fitted surface vessels, capable of operating in Indian waters and around island territories in depths exceeding five metres. They will feature helicopter landing facilities and be designed for tropical conditions.
The vessels will be deployed for coastal and EEZ patrol, fisheries protection, anti-smuggling and anti-piracy operations, search and rescue missions, interception of suspicious vessels, and assistance to ships and crews in distress. They will also support day-and-night operations and refuelling of Advanced Light Helicopters.
Sources said HSL is poised to benefit further from the Union Budget 2026–27, which has increased defence capital outlay with a strong emphasis on indigenisation of shipbuilding and ship repair, along with proposals for a specialised maritime development fund.
With expectations of 15 to 20 per cent rise in defence capital expenditure, HSL is likely to see increased demand for submarines under Project 75(I) and additional surface vessel projects, as the focus remains on domestic procurement and reducing import dependence.