Kolkata: Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) Ltd has delivered the second Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Watercraft (ASWSWC) to the Indian Navy. The vessel, named INS Androth, follows the lead ship INS Arnala, commissioned in June 2025.
Boost to Indigenous Shipbuilding
The Androth is part of an eight-ship series being constructed at GRSE’s Kolkata yard. Named after Androth Island in Lakshadweep, the ship continues the Navy’s tradition of associating shallow-water ASW vessels with island territories. The vessel incorporates a high level of indigenisation, including a 30 mm naval surface gun developed by GRSE.
Expanding the ASWSWC Fleet
The Navy contracted 16 ASWSWCs in total, with eight assigned to GRSE and another eight to Cochin Shipyard Ltd (CSL). GRSE has already launched all eight vessels under its share of the contract, marking a major production milestone. INS Androth is the second ship delivered after completing comprehensive sea trials, while CSL deliveries are scheduled in parallel.
Specialised Coastal Defence Capability
ASWSWCs are optimised for anti-submarine warfare in littoral and coastal zones. Equipped with advanced sonar suites, torpedo launchers, and depth-charge projectors, they provide full-spectrum subsurface detection and engagement capability. Their shallow draft allows operations in coastal areas where larger warships face limitations.
The vessels can conduct search-and-destroy missions against hostile submarines and support escort operations. Integrated bridge systems and efficient propulsion ensure high manoeuvrability, allowing rapid interdiction at short notice. Their role is critical to the Navy’s layered coastal security grid.
Aligned with Atmanirbhar Bharat
The ASWSWC programme underscores India’s strategy of strengthening maritime security through indigenisation. By incorporating locally developed weapons, sensors, and propulsion systems, the class reduces reliance on foreign suppliers. These vessels represent a key step in the Navy’s fleet modernisation drive under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
GRSE’s Expanding Role in Naval Modernisation
Earlier this year, GRSE delivered its 110th warship to the Indian Navy, reaffirming its position as a lead shipbuilder. Alongside the ASWSWC series, the yard is also engaged in advanced projects including Next-Generation Corvettes (NGCs) and Project-17A stealth frigates. These programmes support India’s vision of becoming a global shipbuilding hub by 2047.
