ICGS Sarthak

The Indian Coast Guard Ship (ICGS) Sarthak), an Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV), recently made a port call at Chabahar, Iran. This visit reflects India’s expanding maritime diplomacy and its commitment to regional maritime security in the western Indian Ocean.

About ICGS Sarthak

ICGS Sarthak is a modern multi-mission Offshore Patrol Vessel built to carry out a wide range of coast guard and maritime security operations.

Construction and Commissioning

ICGS Sarthak is the fourth vessel in a series of five OPVs being constructed by Goa Shipyard Limited for the Indian Coast Guard. The ship was commissioned on 28 October 2021.

Design and Technical Specifications

The vessel is 105 metres long with a displacement of 2,450 tonnes. It is powered by two 9,100-kilowatt diesel engines, enabling it to achieve a maximum speed of 26 knots. The ship is equipped with advanced machinery, sensors, and weapon systems.

Advanced Onboard Systems

ICGS Sarthak features an Integrated Bridge System (IBS) and an Integrated Machinery Control System (IMCS). These systems allow centralized navigation, monitoring, and control, enabling the ship to operate efficiently as a command platform during missions.

Operational Roles and Capabilities

The ship is capable of conducting concurrent multi-mission operations. Its key roles include:

Search and Rescue (SAR) operations.
Combating maritime crimes such as smuggling and piracy.
Protection and preservation of the marine environment.
Enforcement of maritime laws within India’s maritime zones.

Base and Area of Operations

ICGS Sarthak is based at Porbandar in Gujarat and operates along India’s western seaboard. It functions under the operational and administrative control of the Commander, Coast Guard Region (West).

Crew Composition

The ship has a crew strength of 11 officers and 110 personnel, ensuring sustained operational readiness at sea.

Significance of the Chabahar Port Call

The port call at Chabahar is significant as it strengthens India–Iran maritime engagement, enhances regional cooperation, and supports India’s strategic interests in the western Indian Ocean region. It also demonstrates the Indian Coast Guard’s role in maritime diplomacy beyond national waters.

Conclusion

ICGS Sarthak is a key asset of the Indian Coast Guard, combining advanced technology, multi-mission capability, and strategic reach. Its visit to Chabahar, Iran, underscores India’s growing maritime presence and commitment to secure, cooperative, and rules-based seas.

Source: PIB

Join Our Telegram

India–Australia Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreem

India–Azerbaijan

05 Apr, 26
SHARE

A year after tensions arising from Operation Sindoor, India and Azerbaijan have taken steps to restore and normalise bilateral relations. The 6th round of Foreign Office Consultations, held in Baku, marked the first such engagement since 2022, signaling renewed diplomatic momentum. Recent Diplomatic Engagement During the consultations, bo

India–Australia Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreem

04 Apr, 26
SHARE

The India–Australia Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement has completed four years since its signing. Both countries now aim to build on this progress through strengthened collaboration and ambitious targets, including reaching AUD 100 billion in bilateral trade by 2030. What is the India–Australia Economic Cooperation and Tra

ADR Report on Political Funding

03 Apr, 26
SHARE

A recent report by the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) analyses donations of ?20,000 or more declared to the Election Commission of India (ECI) by national political parties for FY 2024–25, highlighting transparency and accountability in political financing. Key Findings Massive Funding Surge Total donations to nationa

Maritime Chokepoints

03 Apr, 26
SHARE

Maritime chokepoints are narrow channels along global shipping routes where maritime traffic is concentrated. These points are geopolitically and economically critical, as they handle a large proportion of global trade, especially energy shipments. Current Relevance Over two-thirds of seaborne energy trade passes through a handful o

US-Israel-Iran War

01 Apr, 26
SHARE

Following the launch of Operation Epic Fury (U.S.) and Operation Roaring Lion (Israel), the geopolitical landscape has shifted fundamentally with the confirmed death of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.Iran retaliated through Operation True Promise 4, launching missile attacks against Israel and nearby Gulf states. The escala