In a significant leap toward bolstering its maritime strength, the Indian Navy welcomed 'Androth,' a state-of-the-art anti-submarine warfare shallow water craft (ASW-SWC), on Saturday, September 13, 2025. Built indigenously by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) in Kolkata, this vessel marks the second of eight planned ASW-SWC ships designed to enhance India’s coastal defense and anti-submarine capabilities, particularly in response to China’s expanding presence in the Indian Ocean.

The delivery of Androth represents a milestone in India’s pursuit of self-reliance under the 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' initiative, with over 80% of the ship’s components sourced domestically. This achievement underscores the nation’s growing expertise in defense manufacturing and its commitment to reducing reliance on foreign imports. The Indian Navy highlighted the ship’s role in strengthening coastal surveillance and countering submarine threats, a critical need given the strategic challenges posed by regional maritime dynamics.

Named after Androth Island in the Lakshadweep archipelago, the vessel carries symbolic weight, reflecting India’s resolve to protect its vast maritime borders. Measuring approximately 77 meters in length, Androth is the largest Indian Navy warship to utilize a diesel engine-waterjet propulsion system, offering enhanced maneuverability in shallow waters. Equipped with cutting-edge lightweight torpedoes and indigenous anti-submarine warfare rockets, the ship is poised to deliver a formidable response to underwater threats.

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The design and construction of Androth showcase advanced engineering tailored for modern naval warfare. Its compact yet powerful build enables agile operations in coastal regions, where traditional larger vessels may face limitations. The ship’s arsenal is complemented by sophisticated sensors and systems, ensuring precise detection and neutralization of submarines, a capability vital for safeguarding India’s maritime interests.

This delivery follows the induction of the first ASW-SWC, Arnala, and is part of a broader effort to modernize the Indian Navy’s fleet. The remaining six ships in the series are under various stages of construction, with GRSE leading the charge in collaboration with Indian defense ecosystems. The project not only enhances national security but also boosts local industries, creating jobs and fostering technological innovation.

As geopolitical tensions simmer in the Indian Ocean, particularly with China’s increasing naval activities, Androth’s commissioning sends a strong message of preparedness. The Navy’s investment in such advanced platforms aligns with its vision of maintaining a robust and self-sufficient maritime force capable of deterring potential adversaries. With Androth now in service, India takes a confident step toward securing its waters and asserting its presence on the global stage.

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