Maritime Guardianship: ICGS Samudra Pratap Joins the Fleet

• Context: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh commissioned the **ICGS Samudra Pratap** in Goa on January 5, 2026. This vessel represents a significant leap for the Indian Coast Guard (ICG), being the first indigenously designed and built **Pollution Control Vessel (PCV)** and the largest ship currently in the ICG fleet.

1. A Milestone for “Atmanirbhar Bharat”

• Indigenous Excellence: Built by **Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL)**, the ship features over **60% indigenous content**, with a government target to reach 90% for future warships.
• Economic Impact: The vessel is a product of India’s maturing defense industrial ecosystem, supporting coastal communities and the blue economy.

2. Technical Specifications

3. Specialized Pollution Control Tools

• Detection & Analysis: Advanced oil-slick detection radar, oil fingerprinting machines, and a **Standoff Active Chemical Detector**.
• Containment & Recovery: Flush-type side sweeping arms, floating booms, and high-capacity skimmers to separate oil from contaminated water.
• Storage: Portable barges for storing recovered oil while at sea.

4. A Multi-Role Powerhouse

• Fire-fighting: Equipped with Fi-Fi Class 1 external fire-fighting systems for offshore emergencies.
• Surveillance: Capable of extended patrol in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) to deter illegal activities.
• Aviation Support: Features a helicopter hangar and deck, extending its operational reach even in rough seas.
• Armament: Includes a **30 mm CRN-91 naval gun** and two 12.7 mm remote-controlled guns for security.

5. Breaking Barriers: Gender Inclusion

• Maiden Appointment: For the first time in the ICG, **two women officers** have been appointed to a frontline ship.
• Strategic Shift: This marks a transition from women serving in support roles (pilots, law, logistics) to active service as “frontline warriors” aboard maritime vessels.

6. Strategic Importance & Base

• Operational Control: The ship will be based in **Kochi**, operating under Coast Guard District Headquarters No. 4 (Kerala & Mahe).
• Marine Biodiversity: Its rapid response capabilities are critical for protecting India’s fragile coral reefs, mangroves, and fisheries from oil spills and chemical leaks.

7. Human Component

• Complement: The ship is commanded by **Deputy Inspector General Ashok Kumar Bhama** and carries a crew of 14 officers and 115 sailors.
• Future Outlook: Samudra Pratap is the first of two planned PCVs, signaling a shift toward an intelligence-driven and tech-centric maritime force.