New Delhi, 16 Nov

The Indian Navy will commission the first of its indigenously built Mahe-class anti-submarine warfare shallow-water craft (ASW SWC) in Mumbai on 24 November, strengthening its coastal combat capabilities.

Built by Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL), the vessel Mahe is described as a key milestone in the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative, reflecting advances in Indian naval design and shipbuilding. The Navy said the compact yet powerful craft embodies “agility, precision and endurance” essential for dominating littoral waters.

Designed for submarine hunting, coastal patrols and securing critical maritime approaches, Mahe combines firepower, stealth and high manoeuvrability. It is equipped with torpedoes and anti-submarine rockets, and was formally delivered to the Navy on 23 October.

With more than 80 per cent indigenous content, the Mahe-class represents a new generation of shallow-water combatants showcasing India’s expanding expertise in warship construction and systems integration.

Named after the historic coastal town of Mahe on the Malabar coast, the ship’s crest features the Urumi, the flexible Kalarippayattu sword symbolising agility, precision and lethal grace.