New Delhi: INS Malvan has officially joined the Indian Navy, marking another major step in strengthening India’s maritime security and indigenous defence manufacturing. Commissioned on 22 July 2026 at Karwar, Karnataka, the warship is the second Mahe-class Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC). Built with over 80% indigenous content, INS Malvan supports the Government of India’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision and enhances the Navy’s ability to protect the country’s coastline and maritime interests.
INS Malvan Commissioned at Karwar
The commissioning ceremony took place at Karwar and was presided over by Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, Chief of the Air Staff. The event was attended by Vice Admiral Sanjay Vatsayan, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Western Naval Command, along with senior naval officers, representatives from Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL), veterans, and other distinguished guests.
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What Is INS Malvan
INS Malvan is the second indigenously designed and built Mahe-class Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC). It is also:
- The second of eight Mahe-class ASW-SWCs being built by CSL, Kochi.
- The sixth of a total of 16 ASW-SWCs planned for induction into the Indian Navy.
- Built with more than 80% indigenous content, highlighting India’s growing self-reliance in defence shipbuilding.
Why INS Malvan Is Important
INS Malvan is specially designed for operations in shallow coastal waters. The warship is equipped for:
- Underwater surveillance
- Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW)
- Low Intensity Maritime Operations (LIMO)
- Mine warfare
These capabilities will improve coastal defence, strengthen maritime security, and increase India’s Maritime Domain Awareness.
Named After Maharashtra’s Historic Coastal Town
The ship takes its name from Malvan, a historic coastal town in Maharashtra known for its strong connection with the maritime legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. It also carries forward the legacy of an earlier Indian Naval minesweeper named Malvan, which remained in service until 2003.
Meaning Behind INS Malvan’s Crest and Motto
The crest of INS Malvan features the ‘Bagh Nakha’ (Tiger’s Claw). It represents bravery, agility, stealth, and rapid strike capability. The surrounding waves symbolize India’s vast coastline and the Navy’s commitment to protecting the nation’s seas.
The ship’s motto, “Silent Claws,” reflects stealth, precision, and the ability to strike quickly against threats.
Air Chief Marshal AP Singh Highlights Maritime Security
During the ceremony, Air Chief Marshal AP Singh stressed the importance of protecting sea routes to ensure uninterrupted global trade. He praised the Indian Navy’s progress under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative and highlighted the ship’s high indigenous content. He also emphasized stronger coordination among the Army, Navy, and Air Force through greater tri-service integration.
INS Malvan Strengthening India’s Naval Power
The induction of INS Malvan significantly improves the Indian Navy’s anti-submarine warfare capability. The vessel can operate alongside larger warships, submarines, and naval aircraft, helping the Navy remain Combat Ready, Credible, Cohesive, and Future Ready to safeguard India’s maritime interests and national security.
