Speaking on the occasion, Vice Admiral Thapliyal said commissioning three ships in a span of 33 days is a testimony to the professionalism, resolve and capabilities of Cochin Shipyard Limited. Dwelling on the responsibilities of Indian Coast Guard and it’s fast paced expansion, the Admiral said that 46 coastal radar stations along the coast are nearing completion and 38 more station are in the pipeline in the second phase. He also expressed his appreciation for the support extended by the State Government for all initiatives and outreach programmes of the Indian Coast Guard.
The ship was commissioned within three days after delivery by the builders, Cochin Shipyard Limited. 17 more ships are on building block of which 3 would be delivered before the end of this financial year. ICGS Abhinav commanded by Commandant (JG) Raman Kumar has a crew of 39 and will be based at Kochi. The water jet propelled vessel has a length of 50 meters and displaces 290 tonnes with a top speed of 33 Knots. Fast Patrol Vessels, the work horses of Indian Coast Guard, undertake surveillance, interdiction, search and rescue and medical evacuation. Shri Ravikumar Roddam, Officiating Chairman and Managing Director of Cochin Shipyard Limited, Inspector General SPS Basra, Commander Coast Guard Region West , senior officers from Indian Navy, Coast Guard and Cochin Shipyard Limited witnessed the commissioning ceremony.
