India's defense capabilities receive a major uplift with Cochin Shipyard Limited's delivery of ‘Mahe’, the first of eight indigenously built Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Crafts, enhancing coastal security through advanced underwater surveillance and multifaceted maritime operations.
In a significant leap for India’s naval defense, Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL), Kochi, has delivered the first anti-submarine warfare shallow water craft (ASW SWC) named ‘Mahe’ to the Indian Navy on October 23, 2025. This milestone vessel is the lead ship in a series of eight advanced warships, underscoring India’s strides in indigenous defense manufacturing under the Government’s ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ vision.
Symbolic and Strategic Significance
Named after Mahe, a historic port town in the Union Territory of Puducherry, the ship resonates with India’s rich maritime heritage. At 78 meters and approximately 1,100 tons displacement, it is the largest Indian naval warship powered by a Diesel Engine-Waterjet propulsion system.
Technological Prowess and Capabilities
‘Mahe’ is designed and constructed adhering to the Classification Rules of Det Norske Veritas (DNV). The craft is equipped for:
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Underwater surveillance and detection of hostile submarines using sophisticated radars and sonar systems.
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Low Intensity Maritime Operations (LIMO), including anti-submarine warfare within coastal waters.
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Mine-laying capabilities which add a strategic edge to coastal defense.
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Armed with torpedoes and multifunctional anti-submarine rockets, it is tailored to secure India’s littoral zones effectively.
Indigenous Content and Self-Reliance
With over 80% of its components indigenously sourced, ‘Mahe’ reflects India’s commitment to self-reliance in defense production. It signifies progress in home-grown shipbuilding technology and strengthens the naval fleet’s operational readiness.
Future Outlook
The remaining seven ASW SWCs in the series are scheduled for delivery over the next few years, which will further amplify the Indian Navy’s capacity to counter submarine threats, safeguard maritime interests, and enhance surveillance and security along the coastline.
The delivery ceremony witnessed key officials from CSL and the Indian Navy, highlighting the collaborative efforts that achieved this landmark.
Key Highlights
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First of eight ASW Shallow Water Crafts delivered by CSL to Indian Navy.
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‘Mahe’ is 78 meters long, displacing 1,100 tons, and powered by diesel engine-waterjet.
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Equipped with advanced sonar, radar, torpedoes, anti-submarine rockets, and mine laying.
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Over 80% indigenous components reflect ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ goals.
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Enhances Indian Navy’s anti-submarine and coastal defense capabilities.
Sources Press Information Bureau (PIB), PSU Watch, India Today, Times of India, Cochin Shipyard Limited official release
