The Indian Navy commissioned INS Androth, the second Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC), in a ceremonial event held at the Naval Dockyard, Visakhapatnam, on Monday. The ship has been named after Androth, the northernmost island of the Lakshadweep group, known for its historical and strategic importance in India’s maritime domain.
The ceremony was presided over by Vice Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Naval Command, in the presence of senior naval officers, representatives of M/s Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata, and distinguished civilian dignitaries.
In a statement issued here, the Naval spokesperson stated that INS Androth has over 80 percent indigenous content and underscores Indian Navy’s sustained efforts in constantly enhancing indigenous content through homegrown solutions and innovative technologies.
At 77m in length and displacing about 1500 tonnes, INS Androth is specially designed to undertake anti-submarine operations in coastal and shallow waters. The vessel, a state-of-the-art submarine hunter, is fitted with advanced weapons, sensors, and communication systems, enabling it to detect, track and neutralise sub-surface threats with precision. It can sustain prolonged operations in shallow waters and is equipped with technologically advanced machinery and control systems, the spokesperson said.
Powered by three waterjet propulsion systems driven by marine diesel engines, INS Androth is extremely agile and manoeuvrable. Its capabilities extend to Maritime Surveillance, Search and Rescue, coastal defence missions, and Low Intensity Maritime Operations (LIMO) making it a versatile platform for littoral operations.
Addressing the gathering, by Vice Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar emphasised the strategic importance of indigenously built platforms like INS Androth in strengthening India’s maritime prowess and safeguarding national interests. “The commissioning marks a major step towards bolstering the Navy’s capability in Anti-Submarine Warfare and reaffirms India’s commitment to regional peace, security, and maritime cooperation,” he said.