Over 20 MSME Suppliers Linked To First Make-in-India Mahe-Class ASW Shallow Water Craft

Mumbai, Nov 24 (KNN) The Indian Navy commissioned INS Mahe, the first vessel of the indigenously developed Mahe-class Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC), at the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai on 24 November 2025.  

INS Mahe is the lead ship in a class of eight vessels designed and built by Cochin Shipyard Limited. 

The cheetah mascot highlights speed and focus, while the motto ‘Silent Hunters’ represents the platform’s stealth and operational readiness.

The project incorporates contributions from BEL, L&T Defence, Mahindra Defence Systems, NPOL and more than 20 MSMEs, reflecting a high level of indigenous content.

With over 80 per cent components sourced domestically, the ship exemplifies the Indian Navy’s push for self-reliance.

The vessel significantly enhances the Navy’s anti-submarine capabilities in coastal and shallow waters. 

Equipped with advanced sensors, weapons and communication systems, INS Mahe is designed to detect, track and neutralise underwater threats and sustain extended operations in littoral zones. 

Its compact combat suite integrates multiple systems to deliver high efficiency in restricted maritime environments.

Speaking at the commissioning, General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief, Army Staff General, said the induction underscores India’s growing capability to design and field complex naval platforms using domestic technologies. 

He noted that the ship will strengthen coastal defence, enhance near-sea dominance and support joint military operations. 

Highlighting the importance of integrated warfare, he said future challenges will require coordinated efforts across land, sea and air domains.

The Mahe-class will form a key element of India’s coastal security architecture, operating alongside major warships, submarines and aviation units to maintain continuous maritime surveillance. 

The induction of INS Mahe reinforces the Navy’s commitment to being combat-ready, cohesive and self-reliant in safeguarding national maritime interests.

(KNN Bureau)