New submarine killer! Indian Navy receives anti-submarine warfare vessel 'Mahe' from CSL

In a significant step in boosting India’s coastal surveillance and anti-submarine warfare (ASW) capabilities against emerging underwater threats, the Indian Navy has received the first of the eight anti-submarine warfare shallow water craft (ASW SWC) 'Mahe', being built by Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL).

The vessel, equipped with torpedoes, multi-functional anti-submarine rockets and advanced radars and sonars, has been indigenously designed and constructed by CSL.

The defence ministry said the 78-metre-long vessel, with a displacement of around 1,100 tonnes,  is equipped for underwater surveillance, low-intensity maritime operations, anti-submarine warfare operations in coastal waters, and has advanced mine-laying capability.

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A spokesperson for the Indian Navy said the induction of Mahe will significantly augment the Indian Navy's ASW capability, enhancing maritime security in the littorals.

 

The defence ministry noted that the vessel, with over 80 per cent indigenous content, marks yet another milestone in India's efforts to achieve self-reliance in defence.

 

Named after the historic port town in the Union Territory of Puducherry, 'Mahe' symbolises India's rich maritime heritage, the ministry said.

 

"The protocol signing was done between Dr Harikrishnan, Dir(Ops), CSL & Cdr Amit Chandra Choubey, CO(Designate), in the presence of CSO(Tech) HQWNC. WPS, (Koc), Sr Officials of Indian Navy and CSL were present during the occasion. The vessel will be used for underwater surveillance, search & rescue operations," CSL said in a tweet.

Defence