Navy to commission Mahe, first of eight indigenous ASW shallow-water craft built by CSL
The induction marks a significant step in India’s indigenous shipbuilding programme and enhances the Navy’s ability to secure the nation’s coastal waters.
New vessel strengthens coastal security and showcases India’s Aatmanirbhar shipbuilding capabilities
New Delhi, Nov. 17: The Indian Navy will commission Mahe, the first of the Mahe-class anti-submarine warfare shallow-water craft (ASW-SWC), at the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai on November 24. The induction marks a significant step in India’s indigenous shipbuilding programme and enhances the Navy’s ability to secure the nation’s coastal waters.
Built by Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL), Kochi, Mahe reflects the progress of the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative in naval design and construction. Compact yet highly capable, the vessel brings together agility, precision and endurance—key attributes for operations in shallow and near-coastal regions.
Designed for anti-submarine warfare operations, coastal patrols and safeguarding maritime approaches, the ship integrates firepower, stealth and high manoeuvrability. Officials said the platform will strengthen the Navy’s ability to detect and respond to underwater threats close to the coast.
With more than 80 percent indigenous content, the Mahe-class demonstrates India’s growing capability in warship development and system integration. Named after the historic coastal town of Mahe on the Malabar coast, the ship’s crest features an urumi—the flexible sword used in Kalaripayattu—symbolising agility, precision and combat readiness.
The commissioning of Mahe will introduce a new generation of shallow-water combatants that are swift, compact and fully indigenised, underscoring India’s advances in advanced maritime manufacturing.
