India to Commission Indigenous ASW Craft ‘Mahe’ on November 24 to Boost Coastal Defence

India Set to Commission New ASW Craft ‘Mahe’ on November 24

India is preparing to induct the indigenous anti-submarine warfare (ASW) craft ‘Mahe’ into the Navy’s operational fleet on November 24 , strengthening its coastal defence and underwater surveillance capability. The commissioning marks a key milestone in India’s ongoing efforts to modernise littoral security through compact, fast-response ASW vessels.

Shallow-Water Platform Designed for Littoral Threats

‘Mahe’ is the first of eight ASW Shallow Water Craft (SWC) constructed by Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) under a major indigenous shipbuilding programme. Designed specifically for near-coast operations, the craft is equipped with a lightweight torpedo system , anti-submarine rocket launchers , and advanced radar and sonar sensors capable of detecting small and silent submarines operating in shallow waters.

Heritage-Inspired Design and Symbolism

The ship is named after Mahe , the historic coastal enclave in Puducherry known for its maritime links. Its crest features the ‘Urumi’ , the flexible sword from Kalarippayattu, symbolising agility, precision, and rapid strike capability—attributes central to ASW operations in constrained littoral zones. The design emphasises manoeuvrability, making it ideal for coastal patrols, escort duties, and submarine-hunt missions.

Strengthening Aatmanirbhar Bharat

With over 80% indigenous content , the Mahe-class craft reflects India’s progress in self-reliance across naval platforms. Indigenous components include propulsion machinery, weapon control systems, and communication suites. The Navy will commission the vessel at Naval Dockyard, Mumbai , further consolidating India’s domestic warship-building ecosystem.

Exam Oriented Facts

• ‘Mahe’ is the first of eight ASW Shallow Water Craft built by Cochin Shipyard Limited .

• Equipped with torpedoes, ASW rockets , and advanced sonar-radar systems .

• Commissioning date: November 24 , Naval Dockyard Mumbai .

• Craft built with over 80% indigenous content under Aatmanirbhar Bharat.