These ships are capable of detecting and engaging submarines in coastal waters
In a significant milestone for India's maritime defence capabilities, the Indian Navy launched two indigenously constructed Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Crafts (ASW SWCs) – Malpe and Mulki – at Cochin Shipyard Ltd. (CSL) on September 9, 2024. These vessels are the fourth and fifth ships of the eight-ship ASW SWC project, a part of India's ambitious initiative to modernize its naval fleet with cutting-edge, indigenous technology.

The launch ceremony, held at CSL in Kochi, followed maritime traditions. Vijaya Srinivas, spouse of Vice Admiral V. Srinivas, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Southern Naval Command, formally launched the ships. 

The ASW SWC project was initiated with the signing of a contract between the Ministry of Defence and Cochin Shipyard Ltd. on April 30, 2019. The project involves the construction of eight shallow water anti-submarine warfare vessels, all of which are part of the Mahe-class. These vessels are designed for the specific purpose of conducting anti-submarine operations in shallow waters, along with other crucial tasks such as mine-laying, low-intensity maritime operations, and sub-surface surveillance.

The construction of these ships signifies a leap forward for India’s indigenous shipbuilding industry, with more than 80% of the project’s materials and technologies sourced from domestic manufacturers. This focus on indigenous content not only boosts the domestic defense manufacturing sector but also generates employment and strengthens the country’s strategic autonomy.

Anti-submarine warfare is a critical aspect of maritime defense, as it involves the detection, tracking, and neutralization of enemy submarines, thereby protecting national waters and maritime assets. The ASW SWCs, like Malpe and Mulki, are specially designed for operations in coastal areas where the water is too shallow for conventional warships to operate effectively. This makes them indispensable in ensuring that Indian waters remain secure from undersea threats, particularly those posed by hostile submarines.

Traditionally, India’s minesweepers fulfilled a similar role, protecting coastlines from underwater threats. The Mahe-class vessels, including Malpe and Mulki, carry forward this legacy, being named after strategically significant ports along India’s coastline. Malpe and Mulki follow the launch of other vessels in the project, including INS Mahe, INS Malwan, and INS Mangrol.

The Mahe-class vessels represent the forefront of naval technology. Equipped with state-of-the-art underwater sensors, these ships are capable of detecting and engaging submarines in coastal waters, a crucial capability in anti-submarine warfare. 

Other advanced features of the vessels include:
Lightweight Torpedoes: These torpedoes are designed for high accuracy and efficiency in targeting enemy submarines.

Anti-Submarine Warfare Rockets: These enable the vessels to engage enemy submarines at short distances, enhancing their offensive capabilities.

Close-in Weapon Systems (CIWS): These systems provide last-ditch defense against incoming threats, including anti-ship missiles.

Remote-Controlled Guns: The vessels are equipped with advanced remote-controlled weaponry, ensuring precision and safety for the crew.

India's Firm Focus on Maritime Security 
The launch of Malpe and Mulki comes at a time when India is increasing its focus on securing its maritime borders, particularly in the context of growing geopolitical tensions in the Indo-Pacific region. The Indian Ocean is a vital area for global trade, with a significant portion of the world’s shipping passing through its waters. As a result, safeguarding these waters is of paramount importance to India’s national security and economic stability.

The ASW SWCs are designed to perform multiple roles beyond anti-submarine warfare, including surveillance, search and rescue operations, and mine-laying activities. Their ability to operate in shallow waters makes them especially useful for defending coastal regions, including ports, offshore assets, and strategic maritime zones. As India’s maritime interests grow, these ships will play an increasingly important role in ensuring the security of the nation's coastal areas and sea lines of communication.

Cochin Shipyard Ltd., which is responsible for building the ships, has long been a key player in India’s shipbuilding industry. The company’s ability to deliver advanced warships for the Indian Navy, equipped with the latest technologies, is a reflection of the capabilities of India’s defense manufacturing ecosystem. The ASW SWC project has also contributed to the creation of jobs across the country, as Indian firms have supplied everything from hull materials to weapon systems.

The launch of Malpe and Mulki marks a significant step forward for the Indian Navy and the nation’s defense capabilities. These vessels will enhance India’s ability to defend its coastal waters from underwater threats, while also contributing to broader maritime security objectives. Furthermore, the project showcases India’s growing self-reliance in defense manufacturing, reinforcing the country's position as a rising power in the global defense landscape.

As India continues to strengthen its naval forces, projects like the ASW SWC initiative will be crucial in maintaining the security of the nation's maritime borders and protecting its strategic interests in the Indian Ocean and beyond.