Goa: The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has taken a major step toward strengthening maritime self-reliance with the inauguration of a state-of-the-art Waterjet Production & Testing Facility in Goa. This strategic development aims to bolster India’s domestic capability to manufacture, test, and sustain critical waterjet propulsion systems used in high-speed vessels.
This initiative not only enhances operational readiness but also aligns with India’s broader goals under Aatmanirbhar Bharat to reduce dependency on foreign technology and services.
What is Waterjet Production & Testing Facility Goa
The newly commissioned facility in Goa was inaugurated by Director General of the Indian Coast Guard, Paramesh Sivamani on 13 February 2026.
It has been developed under a Manufacturing and Transfer of Technology (ToT) framework, making India the third country in the world to host such an advanced production and testing setup, following only the United States and South Korea.
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This facility represents a significant milestone in the maritime defence landscape, ensuring that India can independently produce and evaluate waterjet systems — a critical propulsion technology for fast patrol and interceptor vessels.
Key Features of the Waterjet Production & Testing Facility Goa
Before this facility, India relied heavily on foreign testing and maintenance infrastructure for waterjet propulsion systems. With the Goa unit operational, components can now be manufactured, tested, and validated domestically, significantly shortening maintenance time and reducing dependency on external support.
Enhancing Operational Effectiveness
The Indian Coast Guard currently operates over 100 MJP waterjet propulsion systems on various vessels, including fast interceptor boats. Another 42 units are slated for ships under construction. The new facility will enhance life-cycle maintenance and operational sustainment of these systems directly within Indian shores.
Boosting Regional Maritime Capability
Besides serving the domestic fleet, the facility is envisioned as a regional hub for South Asia and adjoining regions, thereby elevating India’s position in maritime engineering and defence manufacturing.
Supporting MSME and Technology Absorption
One of the key outcomes expected from this initiative is the boost it will give to local micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), which will play a crucial role in the expanded supply chain. The facility also aims to create skilled employment opportunities and deepen the absorption of advanced maritime technologies in the Indian industrial ecosystem.
Commitment to Indigenous Capability
During the inauguration, DG Paramesh Sivamani reaffirmed the Indian Coast Guard’s unwavering commitment to indigenisation. He highlighted that sustained engagements since 2023 between Indian authorities and international partners have brought this cutting-edge facility to fruition.
This reflects India’s broader policy focus on self-reliance in defence technology, reducing foreign dependence, and enhancing strategic autonomy in maritime security ecosystems.
Beyond Waterjets: A Look at Air Cushion Vehicles
During his visit, the DG also reviewed progress on six indigenously built Air Cushion Vehicles (ACVs) under construction at Chowgule & Company Pvt Ltd in Goa. These are India’s first such systems with approximately 50% indigenous content, scheduled for delivery beginning in May 2026.
The inclusion of ACVs in India’s coastal fleet will further enhance rapid response and maritime patrol capabilities along the country’s extensive coastline.
What is the Significance of Waterjet Production & Testing Facility Goa
By investing in domestic manufacturing and testing of crucial maritime propulsion tech, India:
- Reduces dependency on overseas technical infrastructure.
- Promotes an indigenous defence innovation ecosystem.
- Enhances coastal defence and surveillance readiness.
- Supports Make-in-India goals in advanced manufacturing sectors.
