Three Anti submarine Warfare ships for the Indian Navy launched

Three Anti submarine Warfare ships for the Indian Navy launched

Subject :Science and Tech

Section: defence

Context:

• Recently, the Cochin Shipyard marked a significant milestone with the simultaneous launch of the first three ships in a series of eight Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) shallow water crafts commissioned by the Indian Navy.
• The ceremony, attended by distinguished naval officials and their spouses, unveiled INS Mahe, INS Malva, and INS Mangrol.

Key Highlights:

Capabilities: 

• Cochin Shipyard, in a 2019 contract with the Ministry of Defence, undertook the construction of eight ASW vessels known as the Mahe class.
• These vessels are designed to replace the Navy’s existing Abhay class ASW corvettes, equipped with capabilities for anti-submarine operations, low-intensity maritime scenarios, mine laying, and sub-surface surveillance operations.

Indigenous Content: 

• With over 80% indigenous content, the ASW SWC ships exemplify India’s commitment to ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ (self-reliant India).
• The emphasis on indigenous production contributes to large-scale defense manufacturing within the country, fostering employment opportunities and enhancing national capabilities.

Arms and Equipment: 

• The ASW vessels are armed with state-of-the-art technology, including light-weight torpedoes, ASW rockets, mines, a close-in weapon system (30 mm gun), and 12.7 mm stabilized remote control guns.
• These armaments enhance their effectiveness in various naval operations, including coordinated ASW operations with aircraft and search and rescue missions.

Vessel Specifications: 

• Each Mahe class vessel, measuring 78 meters in length, 11.36 meters in width, with a draught of 2.7 meters, boasts a displacement of 896 tonnes and can achieve speeds of up to 25 knots.
• With an endurance of 1,800 nautical miles, these vessels accommodate indigenously-developed sonars for underwater surveillance.
• The crew composition includes 57 personnel, including seven naval officers.

Challenges Overcome: 

• Madhu S. Nair, CMD of the shipyard, addressed challenges faced during the construction process, including the pandemic, forex variations, and the war in Ukraine.
• Despite these obstacles, the vessels were delivered within specified price limits, showcasing the resilience and dedication of the Cochin Shipyard.

Project Timeline: 

• According to a press release, the first ship of the ASW SWC project is scheduled for delivery by November 2024.
• This timeline emphasizes the efficiency and dedication with which Cochin Shipyard is progressing in the construction and commissioning of these crucial naval assets.