Indian Navy Strengthens Coastal Defense with Two New Indigenous Anti-Submarine Warfare Vessels

In a major boost to India’s maritime defense, the Indian Navy has received two newly built anti-submarine warfare (ASW) vessels, INS Mulki and INS Malpe. These vessels, designed and constructed by Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL), mark a significant addition to the country’s fleet of ASW shallow watercraft, bringing the total number to five. The induction of these vessels signals a deeper commitment to securing India’s coastal waters and safeguarding its maritime interests against emerging threats.

The ASW vessels, part of an ongoing project aimed at enhancing the Navy's anti-submarine capabilities, are specifically designed for operations in shallow waters. Measuring 78 meters in length with a breadth of 11 meters, these vessels displace around 900 tons at full load. They are equipped with cutting-edge technology, capable of reaching speeds up to 25 knots, making them both agile and powerful in coastal operations.

What sets these vessels apart is their versatility. Primarily built for anti-submarine warfare, they are also adept at conducting a range of operations, including mine-laying, sub-surface surveillance, low-intensity maritime missions, and search and rescue operations. Their impressive armament includes lightweight torpedoes, anti-submarine rockets, and a close-in weapon system (CIWS) for defense against aerial threats. Additionally, the vessels are fitted with remote-controlled guns, enabling them to engage in precise strikes in littoral combat scenarios.

The launch of INS Mulki and INS Malpe reflects India’s growing self-reliance in defense production. Cochin Shipyard has been at the forefront of this transformation, building state-of-the-art vessels that meet international standards. This expansion of the Navy’s ASW fleet not only strengthens India’s ability to detect and neutralize underwater threats but also enhances the country's maritime surveillance capabilities in coastal areas where submarine activity is harder to monitor.

The launch ceremony, held at Cochin Shipyard, was attended by notable dignitaries, including Vice Admiral V. Srinivas, the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Southern Naval Command, and Cochin Shipyard’s Chairman and Managing Director, Madhu S. Nair. Smt. Vijaya Srinivas, wife of Vice Admiral Srinivas, officially launched the vessels, underscoring the significance of the event for India’s naval community.

These ASW shallow watercraft symbolize a broader push by the Indian Navy to modernize its fleet with indigenously produced ships. They form part of India’s strategic approach to securing its vast coastline, which spans over 7,500 kilometers, and ensuring the safety of its exclusive economic zone (EEZ). With the addition of INS Mulki and INS Malpe, India is better equipped to maintain maritime stability and counter potential threats, particularly in a time when submarine activity in the Indian Ocean region is on the rise.

As India continues to prioritize self-reliance in defense, the successful construction and commissioning of these vessels highlight the role of indigenous shipyards in strengthening the nation's military capabilities. The induction of these advanced ASW vessels represents not just a tactical advantage but also a symbol of India's growing influence and preparedness in regional maritime defense.