In a significant milestone for India’s maritime defence sector, Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) Ltd has delivered INS Arnala, the first in a series of Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Crafts (ASW SWCs), to the Indian Navy. The vessel marks the first delivery out of 16 planned ASW SWCs—eight each being constructed by GRSE and another PSU shipyard.
Built under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model in collaboration with L&T’s Kattupalli shipyard, INS Arnala reflects a first-of-its-kind model for defence shipbuilding in India. The 77.6-metre-long and 10.5-metre-wide craft has nearly 88% indigenous content, showcasing GRSE’s commitment to the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
Named after Arnala Island, off the Maharashtra coast and known for its historic fort, the ship is purpose-built for coastal anti-submarine operations, especially in shallow waters where enemy submarines could operate covertly. Despite its smaller size compared to Kamorta-class corvettes, INS Arnala is equipped with advanced Combat Management Systems, lightweight torpedoes, ASW rockets, and three water jets, offering exceptional agility and a shallow draught of just 2.7 metres—perfect for near-coast missions.
INS Arnala was lauded for its “silent ship” design, for which GRSE received the Raksha Mantri’s Award in 2022. The vessel can conduct sub-surface surveillance, search-and-attack missions, and coordinated ASW operations with aircraft. It will carry a crew of 57, including seven officers.
Currently, GRSE is building 16 more warships for the Indian Navy, including three P17A stealth frigates, seven more ASW SWCs, two Survey Vessels (Large), and four Next-Generation Offshore Patrol Vessels. Additionally, the Kolkata-based shipyard is constructing 24 other vessels, nine of which are for export.
