Indigenous Addition to Coastal Defence
India Commissions Indigenous ASW Craft Mahe: India is set to commission the ASW craft Mahe on November 24, adding a highly agile platform to strengthen coastal defence. The vessel is designed to counter underwater threats in shallow-water regions, where rapid detection and action are essential.
Capabilities for Littoral Operations
Mahe is equipped with lightweight torpedoes, anti-submarine rocket systems, and advanced radar–sonar sensors. These systems allow quick identification and engagement of hostile underwater platforms close to the coastline.
Static GK fact: The Indian Navy’s first indigenous warship was INS Ajay, commissioned in 1960.
First of a New ASW Class
Mahe is the first in a series of eight shallow-water anti-submarine craft constructed by Cochin Shipyard Limited. The class focuses on compact hulls, enhanced manoeuvrability, and fast reaction capability—features crucial for tight coastal environments.
Static GK Tip: Cochin Shipyard Limited is India’s largest shipbuilding and maintenance facility, established in 1972.
Maritime Heritage Embedded in Design
The craft takes its name from Mahe, the historic coastal enclave in Puducherry known for its maritime routes and cultural legacy. The ship’s crest carries the ‘Urumi’, a flexible sword from Kalarippayattu, symbolising swiftness and precision.
Static GK fact: Kalarippayattu is one of the world’s oldest martial arts, originating in Kerala.
Strengthening Indigenous Naval Manufacturing
With over 80% indigenous components, Mahe reflects India’s growing self-reliance in naval shipbuilding under Aatmanirbhar Bharat. Its commissioning at the Naval Dockyard, Mumbai, showcases domestic capability in designing and integrating advanced underwater warfare systems.
Static GK Tip: Mumbai’s Naval Dockyard was established in the 18th century by the British East India Company.
Role in Coastal Security Architecture
The Mahe-class will boost submarine tracking, coastal patrol, and sea lane protection across India’s littoral zones. Their compact design and high responsiveness make them ideal for surveillance and swift deployment in high-traffic coastal regions.
Static GK fact: India’s coastline spans 7,516 km, making coastal defence a vital national priority.
Enhancing Operational Readiness
The commissioning of Mahe marks a step forward in integrating modern ASW technologies with agile platforms suited for near-shore operations. The class will form a frontline layer in India’s coastal defence strategy, complementing larger blue-water assets and ensuring a stronger maritime shield.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
India Commissions Indigenous ASW Craft Mahe:
| Topic | Detail |
| Commissioning Date | November 24 |
| Shipyard | Cochin Shipyard Limited |
| Number of ASW Craft | Eight in the class |
| Indigenous Content | Over 80 percent |
| Naming Origin | Mahe, Puducherry |
| Key Weapons | Lightweight torpedoes and ASW rockets |
| Sensors | Advanced radar and sonar suites |
| Commissioning Location | Naval Dockyard, Mumbai |
| Symbol on Crest | Urumi from Kalarippayattu |
| Operational Role | Coastal ASW and littoral security |
