In a monumental stride for India’s naval power and the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative, the Indian Navy today commissioned INS Mahe, the lead ship of the Mahe-class Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC). The ceremony, held at the historic Naval Dockyard, Mumbai, on November 24, 2025, marked a new era in India’s capabilities to combat sub-surface threats in its crucial coastal and shallow waters. Presided over by the esteemed Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi, this event underscores a significant leap in defense manufacturing India and indigenous military prowess.
A New Chapter in Maritime Security
The commissioning of INS Mahe is not just a formality; it’s a powerful declaration of India’s commitment to strengthening its maritime security and self-reliance in defense. As the first of eight such vessels, INS Mahe is specifically engineered to operate with precision and agility in the complex littoral environment. This strategic addition will significantly enhance the Indian Navy’s ability to detect, track, and neutralize hostile submarines, a critical component of modern coastal security. The presence of high-ranking officials at the ceremony emphasized the national importance of this indigenous project.
Designed for Dominance in Shallow Waters
The Mahe-class ASW-SWC is a testament to advanced naval architecture, specifically tailored for shallow water operations. With a length of approximately 78 meters and a draft of just 2.7 meters, INS Mahe is built for optimal maneuverability in restricted coastal areas, a stark contrast to deeper-water destroyers or frigates. This specialized design allows it to replace the aging Abhay-class corvettes, bringing a much-needed upgrade in capability and technological advancement. Its impressive speed of up to 25 knots and 14-day endurance ensure it can sustain prolonged patrols along India’s vast coastline, guarding against emerging underwater challenges. The ship’s motto, “Silent Hunters,” perfectly encapsulates its stealthy and lethal operational philosophy.
The Power of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’: An Indigenous Marvel
At the heart of INS Mahe lies the spirit of “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” (self-reliant India). Boasting an astounding over 80% indigenous content, this vessel is a shining example of India’s burgeoning capabilities in indigenous technology and Make in India defense. From its sophisticated combat suite, including the DRDO-developed Abhay Hull-Mounted Sonar and Low Frequency Variable Depth Sonar (LFVDS), to its Integrated Platform Management System, major contributions have come from Indian giants like Bharat Electronics (BEL), Mahindra Defence, Larsen & Toubro (L&T), and NPOL. This high level of localization significantly boosts the national defense ecosystem, creating jobs and fostering innovation within the country, while simultaneously enhancing India’s strategic independence on the global stage.
Advanced Arsenal: Precision and Potency
Equipped with a formidable array of advanced weapons and sensors, INS Mahe is designed to deliver decisive action against sub-surface threats. Its primary armament includes an RBU-6000 anti-submarine rocket launcher and two triple lightweight torpedo launchers, capable of deploying Advanced Light-Weight Torpedoes (ALWT). Additionally, the craft can deploy anti-submarine mines, further enhancing its defensive and offensive capabilities in littoral warfare. For surface engagements, it features a remotely controlled 30mm Naval Surface Gun and two OFT 12.7mm M2 Stabilized Remote Controlled Guns. These systems, coupled with state-of-the-art multi-function surveillance radar and a comprehensive battle damage control system, ensure that INS Mahe is always ready to tackle any challenge, reinforcing the Indian Navy’s naval strength. The ship’s crest, featuring an ‘Urumi’ – a flexible sword – perfectly symbolizes its agility and lethal grace.
Charting a Course for the Future of Indian Navy
The commissioning of INS Mahe marks a pivotal moment for the Indian Navy and India’s aspirations to become a leading global maritime power. This Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft is more than just a ship; it’s a symbol of indigenous capability, strategic vision, and unwavering commitment to maritime security. As the first of sixteen such vessels planned for the fleet, INS Mahe paves the way for a more robust, self-reliant, and formidable future of Indian Navy. With its “Silent Hunters” prowling the coastal waters, India’s naval defenses are undeniably stronger, ready to protect its interests and uphold peace in the Indian Ocean region.
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