The Indian Navy took a major step in enhancing its coastal security with the delivery of ‘Mahe’, the first of eight Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Crafts (ASW SWC) constructed by Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL), Kochi. Named after the historic port town of Mahe in Puducherry, the vessel is a milestone in India’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat program and demonstrates rapid advances in indigenous naval shipbuilding.
Mahe: Symbol of Indigenous Naval Power
‘Mahe’ is 78 metres long and displaces around 1,100 tons, reflecting India’s increasing self-reliance in advanced warship design and construction. The vessel has over 80% indigenous content, featuring advanced monitoring, electronic warfare systems, and a robust armament suite. Equipped for underwater surveillance, it is tailored for Low Intensity Maritime Operations (LIMO), Anti-Submarine Warfare in coastal areas, and mine laying, enhancing the security of India’s littoral waters.
State-of-the-Art Technology and Armament
The ASW SWC Mahe is fitted with a formidable array of anti-submarine weaponry, including lightweight torpedoes, Multifunctional Anti-Submarine Rockets, and advanced radar and sonar suites. It utilizes a Diesel Engine-Waterjet propulsion system—the largest of its kind in the Indian Navy—to enable swift manoeuvring in shallow coastal zones, making it highly effective against submarine threats and autonomous underwater vehicles.
Strategic Edge in Coastal Operations
The induction of Mahe and its sister ships will substantially augment the Indian Navy’s anti-submarine capabilities. The ship’s ability to operate closely along the coastline and participate in coordinated fleet operations or search-and-rescue missions bolsters India’s preparedness for a variety of maritime security contingencies. Its induction is expected to deter hostile submarine activity and safeguard key maritime assets.
Aatmanirbhar Bharat: The Drive for Naval Self-Reliance
The delivery of Mahe sets a new benchmark for indigenisation in Indian naval manufacturing. By crossing 80% indigenous content and leveraging Indian-made sensors, armaments, and propulsion systems, the program exemplifies the government’s commitment to Make in India and self-sufficiency for national defence.
Conclusion
The delivery of the ASW SWC ‘Mahe’ marks a new era in India’s maritime security, signalling both technological prowess and the deepening pursuit of a self-reliant defence industrial base. As more such vessels join the fleet, coastal waters will become significantly safer and more secure for India’s growing maritime interests.
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Source: PIB
