Mumbai, October 12: The Indian Navy commissioned INS Mangrol, its third Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC), at the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai on Monday. The induction is expected to strengthen India's coastal defence, underwater surveillance and maritime security capabilities.
Built by Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) in Kochi, the vessel features more than 80 per cent indigenous content. Its development reflects India's continued focus on the Make in India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiatives, aimed at strengthening domestic defence manufacturing and reducing dependence on foreign equipment.
Advanced systems to detect submarine threats
INS Mangrol is designed to detect, track and counter submarine threats in shallow and coastal waters. It is equipped with several specialised systems, including the Abhay hull-mounted sonar, lightweight torpedoes, an indigenous anti-submarine rocket launcher and the Maareech Advanced Torpedo Decoy System.
These systems are intended to help the vessel identify underwater threats and respond to potential submarine attacks, enhancing the Navy's ability to secure strategically important coastal areas.
The vessel is powered by three diesel engines and uses waterjet propulsion. This configuration allows it to manoeuvre effectively in shallow waters and operate close to the coastline, where larger warships may face operational limitations.
Multiple maritime security roles
Apart from anti-submarine warfare, INS Mangrol can undertake underwater surveillance, mine warfare-related tasks and low-intensity maritime operations. It is expected to play a role in protecting ports, harbours and coastal infrastructure against potential maritime threats.
The craft can also operate alongside other naval assets, including warships, maritime patrol aircraft and helicopters. Such coordination can strengthen surveillance networks and improve the Navy's ability to respond to emerging threats in coastal waters.
Named after Gujarat's coastal town
INS Mangrol takes its name from Mangrol, a coastal town and fishing harbour in Gujarat's Junagadh district. The name also recalls an earlier Indian Navy vessel, INS Mangrol (M85), a minesweeper that remained in service until April 2004.
The commissioning adds another indigenously built platform to the Navy's fleet as India continues to invest in specialised vessels for coastal security and underwater operations.
With its shallow-water capabilities, advanced anti-submarine systems and high level of indigenous content, INS Mangrol is expected to contribute to the protection of India's maritime interests while supporting the country's broader goal of achieving greater self-reliance in defence production.
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