The Indian Navy will commission INS Androth, the second Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC), at Naval Dockyard, Visakhapatnam, on 6 October 2025. The ceremony, to be presided over by Vice Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar, marks a significant stride in the Navy’s drive for indigenisation and operational enhancement.
Strengthening Indigenisation and Self-Reliance
INS Androth is built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata, with over 80% indigenous content—underscoring India’s technological advancement and the Navy’s commitment to Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance). It joins a series of advanced warship inductions including Arnala, Nistar, Udaygiri, and Nilgiri, all reflecting balanced growth and home-grown innovation.
Enhancing ASW and Littoral Capabilities
The vessel is designed to operate effectively in shallow coastal (littoral) waters. At approximately 77 meters in length, INS Androth is the largest Indian Naval warship propelled by a diesel engine-waterjet combination. Its advanced armament and sensor suite includes indigenous lightweight torpedoes, ASW rockets, and state-of-the-art sonar, enabling effective submarine detection and engagement.
INS Androth is also equipped for maritime surveillance, search and rescue, and coastal defense, making it versatile for a variety of operational needs. The vessel’s induction will substantially strengthen the Navy’s anti-submarine warfare (ASW) capability, especially against underwater threats in near-shore zones.
India’s Maritime Self-Reliance and Future Outlook
Named after Androth Island in Lakshadweep, the vessel symbolizes both territorial vigilance and national pride in indigenous shipbuilding. This commissioning highlights the vital contribution of Indian shipyards and industries to building a robust, modern, and self-reliant Navy.
Conclusion
INS Androth’s commissioning reinforces India’s strategic focus on indigenisation, technological innovation, and enhanced maritime readiness. It forms a key element in the Navy’s ongoing modernization, expanding both defensive depth and home-built capability across India’s vast maritime frontiers.
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Source: PIB
