The Indian Navy has taken delivery of INS Malwan, the second Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW SWC) constructed by Cochin Shipyard Limited in Kochi, according to an official statement. This vessel is part of a series of eight ships being built to bolster India’s coastal defense and underwater surveillance capabilities.
INS Malwan, designed and constructed domestically by CSL to meet the Indian Navy’s specifications and DNV classification standards, signifies a significant advancement in India’s drive towards self-sufficiency in defense production. DNV, a globally recognized Norwegian body, sets technical standards and certification guidelines for ships, offshore platforms, and maritime systems.
Featuring over 80% indigenous components, INS Malwan highlights the increasing involvement of domestic industries, including MSMEs, in developing sophisticated naval platforms. Named after the historic coastal town of Malwan in Maharashtra, which is linked to the maritime legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the vessel continues the tradition of reusing distinguished naval names.
With a length of approximately 80 meters and a displacement of around 1,100 tonnes, INS Malwan is equipped with state-of-the-art propulsion and combat systems tailored for operations in shallow coastal waters. The ship utilizes waterjet propulsion and is outfitted with advanced sensors like radars and sonar systems for efficient underwater detection and tracking.
Designed for various missions such as anti-submarine warfare, underwater surveillance, and low-intensity maritime operations, INS Malwan also possesses mine warfare capabilities, enhancing its versatility in safeguarding coastal and near-shore regions. Equipped with torpedoes and anti-submarine rockets, the vessel can effectively counter underwater threats.
The commissioning of INS Malwan underlines India’s continuous efforts to modernize its naval fleet while promoting indigenous design and manufacturing. This initiative aligns with the government’s vision of achieving self-reliance in defense through the Aatmanirbhar Bharat (Self-reliant India) campaign.
By receiving this vessel, the Indian Navy reinforces its operational readiness in coastal areas and supports the local defense manufacturing sector. The forthcoming ships in the series are anticipated to further boost the Navy’s capabilities in anti-submarine warfare and maritime security in the upcoming years.