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Aircraft of the Indian Coast Guard: Guardians of the Maritime Frontier

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This is one of the most commonly asked questions in the Indian Coast Guard FSB interview. Unfortunately, many candidates struggle to answer it correctly due to misinformation or a lack of awareness. Having accurate knowledge of this topic is essential for every Coast Guard aspirant.
When we talk about protecting India’s vast coastline and maritime interests, most people think of warships and patrol boats. But there's another silent guardian flying high above the sea – the aircraft of the Indian Coast Guard.
As someone who’s always been fascinated by defence forces, I’ve always admired how the Indian Coast Guard quietly does its job – saving lives, stopping illegal activities, and monitoring the vast Indian waters. Their aircraft play a huge role in all this.
The Indian Coast Guard operates a range of versatile aircraft for surveillance, search and rescue (SAR), maritime patrol, and pollution control.

1. Fixed-Wing Aircraft - Dornier Do-228:

  • Twin-turboprop aircraft.
  • Equipped with modern sensors and communication systems.
Role: Maritime surveillance, reconnaissance, SAR, pollution detection.

The Workhorse of the Sky
The Dornier Do-228 is the backbone of the ICG’s aerial surveillance. It’s a small, twin-engine aircraft but loaded with high-tech sensors, radar, and cameras. Whether it's tracking suspicious boats, spotting oil spills, or helping in search and rescue, the Dornier does it all. You’ll find these stationed across different Coast Guard air stations along the Indian coast.



2. Rotary-Wing Aircraft - Chetak Helicopters:
  • Light utility helicopters.
  • Operated from Coast Guard ships and land bases.
Role: Search and Rescue, utility transport, limited maritime patrol.

These may look old-school, but the Chetaks have been serving the Coast Guard faithfully for years. They’re used for rescue operations, quick medical evacuations, and sometimes for dropping supplies to ships at sea. You’ve probably seen one landing on a moving ship – that’s real skill!

3. Rotary-Wing Aircraft - Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) – Dhruv:

  • Indigenous helicopter by HAL.
  • Features: Glass cockpit, multi-role capability.

Role: Maritime surveillance, casualty evacuation, logistics.

The Advanced Light Helicopter (Dhruv), designed by HAL, is now a big part of the Coast Guard’s air wing. The new Mk III versions are specially modified for maritime duties. From search and rescue to patrolling coastal areas, these helicopters are fast, reliable, and completely desi.


Upcoming and Modernization Plans

The Future – Modernizing the Fleet

The Indian Coast Guard is stepping up. More advanced aircraft are being added, including upgraded Dorniers and multi-mission helicopters. In the coming years, we’ll also see long-range maritime surveillance aircraft being inducted.

  1. Induction of newer variants of ALH Mk III.
  2. Acquisition of Multi-Mission Maritime Aircraft (MMMA) planned.
  3. Integration of state-of-the-art sensors and communication systems.

Real-Life Heroes
It’s not just about hardware. Coast Guard pilots and crew have saved countless lives – from fishermen caught in cyclones to passengers on sinking boats. During natural disasters like cyclones or tsunamis, these aircraft are the first to reach remote or flooded areas.


Why This Matters
Our oceans are busy – from trade routes to illegal fishing to potential threats. Aircraft give the Indian Coast Guard a bird’s-eye view to keep things under control. Without them, India’s 7,500+ km coastline would be vulnerable.

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Final Thoughts
I believe the aircraft of the Indian Coast Guard are true heroes in the sky – quietly working round the clock to keep our seas safe. Whether you’re into defence or just proud of India’s capabilities, this is something to admire.

"I pray that each and every one of you reading this article gets recommended and serves this nation with pride. Your hard work will lead you to success."

Jai Hind, future leader

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