Indian Navy Commissions Mahe, First Mahe-class Anti-Submarine Vessel

The Indian Navy commissioned INS Mahe, the first vessel of the Mahe-class anti-submarine warfare shallow water craft (ASW-SWC), at the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai on November 24.

Built by Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL), INS Mahe carries more than 80% indigenous content, according to the Navy. The service said the class reflects India’s growing capability in warship design, construction and integration. The vessel is named after the coastal town of Mahe on the Malabar coast.

The ship’s crest features an Urumi, the flexible sword associated with Kalarippayattu, which the Navy described as a symbol of agility and precision.

INS Mahe is designed to conduct submarine-hunting missions, coastal patrols and protection of India’s maritime approaches. The ship is equipped with torpedoes and anti-submarine rockets and was delivered to the Navy on 23 October.

The Navy said the vessel will operate on the Western Seaboard with a role focused on securing coastal waters and supporting anti-submarine operations.