Commissioning of INS Mahe: Strategic Significance
The Indian Navy has commissioned INS Mahe, the first Mahe-class Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC), enhancing its coastal security capabilities.
Design and Construction
- Builder: Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL), Kochi.
- Classification: Designed per Det Norske Veritas (DNV) standards.
- Dimensions: 78 meters long, 11.36 meters wide, 2.7 meters draught.
- Displacement and Speed: 896 tonnes, maximum speed of 25 knots.
- Endurance: 1,800 nautical miles.
Strategic Capabilities
- Underwater surveillance, search and rescue operations, and Low Intensity Maritime Operations (LIMO).
- Equipped with state-of-the-art sonars, weapons, sensors, and communication systems.
- Advanced mine-laying capabilities.
Historical and Cultural Significance
Named after Mahe, a town on the Malabar Coast, reflecting maritime heritage. The crest features the Urumi sword from Kalaripayattu, symbolizing agility and grace, with a mascot Cheetah representing speed and focus.
Indigenous Content and Industry Participation
- Over 80% indigenous content.
- Industry partners include BEL, L&T Defence, Mahindra Defence Systems, NPOL, and more than 20 MSMEs.
Project Significance
The project closes a longstanding operational gap, providing the Navy with the ability to counter stealthy diesel-electric submarines, essential for securing vital maritime assets and harbour approaches.
Expansion Plan
- Total ASW Vessels: 16 vessels, with eight each from CSL and GRSE.
- Arnala-class by GRSE: Includes INS Arnala and INS Androth among others.
- Mahe-class by CSL: Includes newly commissioned INS Mahe, and upcoming vessels like Malval, Mangrol.
Operational Enhancement
These ships are crucial for enhancing the Navy’s operational capabilities in the Indian Ocean Region, establishing a structured ASW protection wall, and improving coastal defense and deterrence.