New Addition to India’s Naval Power
Silent Strength of India’s Littoral Defence: The commissioning of INS Mahe marks a major shift in India’s coastal defence strategy. Inducted into the Western Naval Command on 24 November 2025, the vessel represents a new class of Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft designed for high-precision missions in near-shore zones. Its entry enhances India’s capacity to detect underwater threats in regions where larger platforms face operational limits.
Design for Littoral Superiority
INS Mahe is engineered for operations in shallow and congested waters, offering high agility and advanced stealth. Its systems enable quick response and detection, making it an essential tool for addressing evolving sub-surface challenges. The ship’s motto, “Silent Hunters”, reflects its focus on precision and surprise in undersea warfare.
Static GK fact: Littoral waters refer to regions close to shore, usually up to 200 metres deep, where submarine detection is often difficult due to acoustic disturbances.
Built Under Aatmanirbhar Bharat
INS Mahe showcases more than 80% indigenous content, reinforcing India’s commitment to defence self-reliance. It is the first of eight vessels in the Mahe-class project, designed and constructed by Cochin Shipyard Limited in Kochi. The project brings together leading Indian defence companies including BEL, L&T Defence, Mahindra Defence, and several MSMEs.
This coordinated defence manufacturing effort strengthens India’s industrial ecosystem while setting new standards for indigenous shipbuilding.
Static GK Tip: Cochin Shipyard Limited is India’s largest shipbuilding and maintenance facility, established in 1972.
Heritage Behind the Name
The ship is named after Mahe, a historic coastal settlement known for its maritime lineage. Its crest features the Urumi, a flexible sword used in Kalaripayattu, symbolising agility and mastery in combat. The Cheetah, chosen as the ship’s mascot, signifies speed and stealth—traits essential to anti-submarine missions.
Key Technical Capabilities
INS Mahe incorporates advanced features tailored for shallow-water warfare.
It has an approximate length of 78 metres and a displacement of around 1,100 tonnes. The vessel can reach speeds up to 25 knots and cover nearly 1,800 nautical miles without refuelling. Its diesel engines power water jet propulsion systems, improving manoeuvrability in confined waters.
The ship includes modern sonar systems, enhanced communication suites, and specialised weaponry for detecting and neutralising submarines. Its operational profile covers anti-submarine warfare, coastal surveillance, mine laying, and escort duties.
Static GK fact: One nautical mile equals 1.852 kilometres, a standard unit used in navigation.
Strategic Relevance for India
The addition of INS Mahe strengthens India’s coastal defence posture, especially in the Arabian Sea and other vulnerable littoral regions. It serves as a frontline surveillance asset, complementing the Navy’s submarines, maritime aircraft, and surface fleet. Its role is crucial for maintaining a secure maritime environment in zones vital for trade and strategic interests.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Silent Strength of India’s Littoral Defence:
| Topic | Detail |
| Commissioning date | 24 November 2025 |
| Location | Naval Dockyard, Mumbai |
| Builder | Cochin Shipyard Limited |
| Class | Mahe-class ASW Shallow Water Craft |
| Motto | Silent Hunters |
| Mascot | Cheetah |
| Indigenous content | Over 80% |
| Length | Approx. 78 metres |
| Speed | Up to 25 knots |
| Endurance | Around 1,800 nautical miles |
