Why in news?
The Indian Coast Guard ship Sarthak made its first port call at Chabahar in Iran in December 2025. The vessel, which is part of a series of indigenously built offshore patrol vessels, is scheduled to engage in joint training and community outreach with the Iranian Navy during its stay. The visit highlights growing maritime cooperation and India’s strategic interests in the region.
Background
ICGS Sarthak was commissioned into the Indian Coast Guard in October 2021. Built by Goa Shipyard Limited, the vessel is 105 metres long, displaces about 2,450 tonnes and is powered by two diesel engines delivering 9,100 kilowatts each, allowing a top speed of around 26 knots. It is equipped with state‑of‑the‑art radar, navigation and communication systems and carries a 30 mm naval gun, heavy‑calibre machine guns and a helicopter deck.
The ship’s primary roles include search and rescue, maritime law enforcement, anti‑smuggling operations and environmental protection in the exclusive economic zone. With a complement of 11 officers and 110 sailors, Sarthak embodies the Make in India initiative and enhances the Coast Guard’s ability to patrol India’s vast coastline.
Key points about the Chabahar visit
- Professional exchanges: Sarthak’s crew will conduct joint exercises with the Iranian Navy on search and rescue, maritime law enforcement and pollution response, sharing best practices and building interoperability.
- Community outreach: The visit includes sports events and environmental activities, fostering goodwill between the two maritime forces.
- Strategic context: Chabahar Port in southeastern Iran is a key node in India’s strategy to access Afghanistan and Central Asia while bypassing Pakistan. Regular visits by Indian naval and coast guard ships demonstrate commitment to the port’s development and regional connectivity.
Significance
- Strengthening maritime ties: The visit deepens cooperation between India and Iran in maritime security and underscores the importance of working together to ensure safe and secure seas.
- Supporting SAGAR/MAHASAGAR vision: India’s Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR) and the broader MAHASAGAR initiatives emphasize collaborative maritime development in the Indian Ocean. Engagements like Sarthak’s port call operationalise these concepts.
- Promoting indigenous capability: Showcasing a domestically built offshore patrol vessel abroad highlights India’s shipbuilding expertise and boosts confidence in its defence industry.
Conclusion
ICGS Sarthak’s first visit to Chabahar reflects the Indian Coast Guard’s expanding reach and the strategic importance of Iran’s port for regional connectivity. Such engagements not only enhance operational readiness but also cultivate partnerships that support maritime security and economic links across the Indian Ocean region.
Source: NOA
