Air Cushion Vehicles (ACVs)
Why in News?
Air Cushion Vehicles (ACVs), commonly known as hovercraft, are recently in the news due to a major milestone in India's maritime defence: the Girder Laying Ceremony for the 4th, 5th, and 6th indigenously built ACVs for the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) held on May 11, 2026.
Key Point
- Operating Principle: ACVs move on a cushion of air generated by lift fans, which is contained by a flexible "skirt." This allows them to hover above the surface.
- Amphibious Nature: They are uniquely capable of traveling over water, land, mudflats, sandbanks, and marshy terrain—areas where traditional ships cannot reach.
Indigenous Project Details
- Manufacturer: Chowgule & Company Private Limited, Goa.
- Design Basis: Developed in collaboration with Griffon Hoverwork (UK) but tailored with Indian expertise.
- Local Content: Built with nearly 50% indigenous material.
- Cost: The contract for the six vessels is valued at approximately ₹387.44 crore.
Operational Roles
- Surveillance: High-speed coastal patrolling and reconnaissance in shallow or marshy waters.
- Interception: Day and night interdiction of suspect vessels or smuggling activities.
- Search and Rescue (SAR): Rapid assistance to ships in distress and life-saving missions at sea.
- Strategic Mobility: Enhancing the ability of security forces to move across diverse coastal terrains without specialized docks.
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