Why in news?
The Indian Navy has taken delivery of Mahe, the first in a series of eight Anti‑Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW SWC) built by Cochin Shipyard Limited. The vessel was handed over on 23 October 2025 and will enhance the Navy’s ability to detect and neutralise submarines in coastal waters.
Background
In 2019 the Ministry of Defence signed a contract with Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) to design and build eight ASW SWCs. These ships are intended to replace older vessels and provide modern capabilities for surveillance and anti‑submarine warfare in India’s shallow littoral zones. Mahe is named after the historic port town in the Union Territory of Puducherry, reflecting India’s maritime heritage. The ship has been designed by the Navy’s in‑house Warship Design Bureau and incorporates a high level of indigenous content to promote the Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self‑reliance) initiative.
Key features
- Size and performance: Mahe displaces roughly 1,100 tonnes, measures about 78 metres in length and can reach speeds of up to 25 knots (approximately 46 km/h). Its shallow draft allows it to operate close to shore.
- Sensors and weapons: The vessel is fitted with advanced hull‑mounted sonar and low‑frequency variable depth sonar for detecting submarines. It carries lightweight torpedoes, anti‑submarine rockets, mine‑laying racks and a remote‑controlled weapon station. Chaff and decoy launchers improve its survivability.
- Command and control: Integrated navigation and communication systems provide real‑time information sharing and seamless coordination with other naval assets.
- Multirole capability: Besides hunting submarines, the ship can undertake search‑and‑rescue, casualty evacuation, coastal surveillance and limited mine‑laying operations.
- Indigenous construction: More than 80 percent of the ship’s components are sourced from Indian suppliers, including steel, propulsion equipment and sensors, promoting domestic industry.
Significance
- Enhancing coastal defence: ASW SWCs like Mahe will patrol Indian coasts and choke points where conventional warships cannot operate effectively, deterring enemy submarines.
- Boosting self‑reliance: Building these vessels indigenously strengthens India’s shipbuilding ecosystem and reduces dependence on foreign technologies.
- Supporting maritime security: By monitoring sea lanes and detecting underwater threats, the craft contributes to the safety of merchant shipping and offshore resources.
Conclusion
The delivery of Mahe marks a milestone in India’s efforts to upgrade its anti‑submarine warfare capabilities. As more of these shallow water craft join the fleet, the Navy will be better positioned to safeguard coastal waters and advance the goal of a self‑reliant defence industry.
Source: Press Information Bureau