New Delhi: In a significant addition to India’s maritime defense arsenal, the Indian Navy on Monday, October 6, 2025, formally commissioned INS Androth, its second Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC). The commissioning ceremony took place at the Visakhapatnam Naval Dockyard, presided over by Vice Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Naval Command.
Designed for Shallow Waters, Built by GRSE
INS Androth has been constructed by the Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata, one of India’s premier shipyards. With over 80% indigenous content, the ship is a strong embodiment of the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ (Self-Reliant India) initiative.
Designed specifically for operations in coastal and shallow waters, the vessel will significantly enhance the Navy’s capability to detect and neutralize enemy submarines in regions where conventional vessels may struggle to operate effectively.
State-of-the-Art Equipment and Capabilities
INS Androth boasts a length of 77 meters, a displacement of approximately 1,500 tonnes, and is powered by marine diesel engines. It is equipped with advanced sensors, sonar systems, communication suites, and weaponry to counter subsurface threats with precision.
The ship is also capable of conducting maritime surveillance, coastal defense missions, search and rescue (SAR) operations, and low-intensity maritime tasks—making it a versatile asset for India’s coastal defense.
Named After Strategic Island in Lakshadweep
The ship is named after Androth Island, the northernmost island of the Lakshadweep group, known for its strategic, cultural, and historical importance. The naming underscores the Indian Navy’s continued tradition of honoring India’s coastal regions and island territories through its vessels.
A Symbol of Maritime Self-Reliance
Describing the vessel as a “shining symbol of India’s maritime self-reliance”, the Navy emphasized the role of indigenous shipbuilding capabilities in bolstering national security. The vessel joins a growing list of Indian-built warships including INS Udaygiri, INS Himgiri, INS Nistar, and INS Nilgiri, all commissioned in recent years as part of the Navy’s modernization and indigenization drive.
Vice Admiral Lauds Indigenous Capabilities
During the commissioning ceremony, Vice Admiral Pendharkar visited various parts of the ship, interacted with the crew and officials from GRSE, and appreciated their dedicated efforts. He praised the ship’s indigenous technologies and timely construction, calling it a milestone for India’s defense production ecosystem.
Recent Naval Inductions Highlight India’s Maritime Modernization
August 26, 2025: The Navy inducted INS Udaygiri and INS Himgiri, both advanced warships designed with stealth features and equipped with BrahMos and Barak-8 missiles.
July 18, 2025: INS Nistar, India’s first indigenously built diving support and rescue vessel, was commissioned. It supports underwater rescue up to 300 meters.
These additions highlight the Navy’s focus on building a future-ready, technologically advanced, and self-reliant maritime force.
About Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Ltd. (GRSE)
GRSE is a leading shipbuilding company under the Ministry of Defence, located in Kolkata. It specializes in designing and constructing advanced naval and coast guard vessels. GRSE has delivered a wide range of warships, including frigates, corvettes, and patrol vessels, playing a key role in strengthening India’s defense manufacturing and maritime capabilities.
About Indian Navy
The Indian Navy is the naval branch of the Indian Armed Forces, responsible for safeguarding the nation’s maritime interests. It operates a diverse fleet of ships, submarines, and aircraft, and plays a crucial role in national security, maritime diplomacy, and disaster response. The Navy actively collaborates with Indian shipyards like GRSE to promote indigenization and enhance operational strength.
Read also: Indian Navy Inducts INS Androth, GRSE’s Second Indigenous Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Watercraft
