INS Mahe: Advancing India’s Coastal Defence

context

INS Mahe, the first Mahe-class Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC), has been commissioned into the Indian Navy at Mumbai.
The induction strengthens India’s coastal defence capability and advances indigenous naval development.

what it is
• Lead vessel of the Mahe-class ASW Shallow Water Craft designed for anti-submarine warfare in shallow and coastal waters.
• Acts as the frontline element of coastal defence, supporting larger warships, submarines, and aviation units.

developed by
• Designed and built by Cochin Shipyard Limited, Kochi.
• Incorporates more than 80 percent indigenous content, contributing to Aatmanirbhar Bharat.

aim of the platform
• Detect, track, and neutralise submarine threats in littoral zones.
• Enhance maritime domain awareness and strengthen coastal ASW response.

key features of ins mahe
• Optimised for low-depth coastal waters where larger platforms face manoeuvrability constraints.
• Equipped with modern weapons, precision sensors, and advanced communication systems.
• Motto Silent Hunters highlighting stealth and operational readiness.
• Integrated machinery and digital control systems for efficient performance.

design elements
• Named after the historic coastal town of Mahe on the Malabar Coast.
• Crest displays the Urumi, the flexible sword associated with Kalaripayattu.
• Mascot is the cheetah, representing speed, agility, and focus.

significance
• Enhances India’s shallow-water ASW capability and strengthens the layered maritime security grid.
• Improves submarine detection and tracking in critical littoral regions.
• Marks a major achievement in indigenous warship-building and specialised naval platform development.

conclusion
INS Mahe reinforces coastal defence, strengthens ASW preparedness, and reflects India’s growing proficiency in designing and constructing advanced naval vessels.

Source : PIB