The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) formally decommissioned Air Cushion Vehicle (ACV) H-186 at a ceremonial event held at 88 ACV Squadron, Coast Guard Headquarters No. 8, Haldia, marking the end of over two decades of dedicated operational service.
The ceremony was presided over by Inspector General Iqbal Singh Chauhan, PTM, TM, Commander, Coast Guard Region (North East), in the presence of senior Indian Coast Guard officers, civil dignitaries, and representatives from the maritime community.
Commissioned on 21 March 2002, Hovercraft H-186 played a vital role in strengthening India’s coastal security architecture through its exceptional amphibious capabilities and operational versatility. Over its 24 years of service, the hovercraft undertook a wide spectrum of missions, including coastal surveillance, maritime law enforcement, anti-smuggling operations, and humanitarian assistance.
H-186 earned distinction for its outstanding contribution to Search and Rescue (SAR) operations. Among its most notable achievements was the successful rescue of 511 pilgrims during a large-scale SAR mission on 16 January 2023 under challenging conditions. The hovercraft also rescued 182 pilgrims on 16 January 2024 and participated in a search operation at Bakkhali Beach on 11 August 2024, recovering the bodies of two missing individuals.
Recognising its exemplary operational performance, H-186 was awarded the Best SAR Unit in 2004 and was again honoured in 2006 for saving 78 lives during rescue operations.
To commemorate the Golden Jubilee of the Indian Coast Guard, the decommissioned hovercraft will be preserved as a static display at New Town, Kolkata, serving as a tribute to its distinguished legacy and the service rendered by its officers and crew.
The Indian Coast Guard acknowledged the dedication, professionalism, and commitment of all personnel who served aboard H-186 throughout its operational life.
As part of its ongoing modernisation drive, the Indian Coast Guard has already begun inducting a new generation of indigenously built Air Cushion Vehicles (ACVs) to enhance coastal surveillance, maritime security, and rapid response capabilities, reinforcing its commitment to safeguarding India’s maritime interests with advanced indigenous platforms.
