Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) has successfully delivered INS Mahe, the first of eight Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW SWC), to the Indian Navy, marking a significant milestone in India’s indigenous shipbuilding efforts under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
Measuring 78 metres in length, INS Mahe is the largest Indian naval vessel powered by a diesel engine-waterjet combination, providing enhanced manoeuvrability and a reduced acoustic signature—key features for effective anti-submarine operations in littoral waters.
The vessel is designed for coastal defence missions, including underwater surveillance, search and rescue, Low Intensity Maritime Operations (LIMO), and mine-laying tasks. Its compact and agile design makes it suitable for operations in shallow waters, where larger destroyers and frigates face navigational constraints.
Constructed in accordance with Det Norske Veritas (DNV) Classification Rules, the warship adheres to international standards for performance, safety, and reliability. Over 90% of its components are sourced domestically, reflecting India’s growing self-reliance and technological capability in naval shipbuilding.
The formal acceptance ceremony was conducted by Dr S. Harikrishnan, Director (Operations), Cochin Shipyard, and Commander Amit Chandra Choubey, Commanding Officer (Designate) of Mahe, in the presence of senior naval officials including Rear Admiral R. Adhisrinivasan and Commodore Anup Menon.
A spokesperson for Cochin Shipyard highlighted that the induction of the ASW SWC series will significantly enhance the Navy’s shallow water anti-submarine warfare capability, strengthening coastal security and operational readiness while showcasing India’s growing expertise in advanced indigenous warship construction.
