INS Mangrol Strengthens India’s Coastal Defence Against Underwater Threats

The Indian Navy commissioned INS Mangrol, its third Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC), at the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai on October 12, 2026. Built by Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) in Kochi, Kerala, the indigenously constructed vessel is designed to detect and counter underwater threats in coastal and shallow waters. Its induction marks another step in strengthening India's maritime security capabilities, particularly around ports, harbours and strategically important coastal areas.

INS Mangrol has been constructed with more than 80 per cent indigenous content under the government's Make in India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiatives. The vessel reflects India's growing capabilities in domestic warship design, construction and the integration of advanced maritime technology. Vice Admiral Sanjay Vatsayan, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Western Naval Command, presided over the commissioning ceremony, which was attended by naval and defence officials and representatives associated with the shipbuilding programme.

The vessel is specifically designed to operate in shallow coastal waters, where larger warships can face operational limitations. It is equipped with modern detection systems and specialised equipment intended to help the Navy identify and respond to underwater threats. These capabilities are particularly important for monitoring coastal approaches and safeguarding maritime infrastructure. The ship can also work alongside other naval vessels, maritime patrol aircraft and helicopters to support wider surveillance and security operations.

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INS Mangrol incorporates several systems for its anti-submarine warfare role, including the Abhay hull-mounted sonar, lightweight torpedoes, an indigenous anti-submarine rocket launcher and the Maareech Advanced Torpedo Decoy System. Its equipment is designed to assist in detecting underwater threats and responding to potential submarine activity. The vessel is powered by three diesel engines with waterjet propulsion, providing the manoeuvrability required for operations in shallow and confined waters.

Beyond its primary role, INS Mangrol can undertake underwater surveillance, low-intensity maritime operations and mine warfare-related tasks. These additional capabilities allow the vessel to support a range of coastal security requirements. Its ability to operate alongside other naval assets is expected to strengthen coordination during maritime surveillance and defence operations, particularly in areas where protecting ports and coastal approaches remains a priority.

The ship takes its name from Mangrol, a coastal town and fishing harbour in Gujarat's Junagadh district. It also carries forward the legacy of the earlier INS Mangrol, a minesweeper that served the Indian Navy until April 2004. The commissioning follows the induction of other vessels in the Navy's shallow-water anti-submarine warfare programme and reflects the continuing expansion of India's indigenous naval fleet. With its specialised design and domestic construction, INS Mangrol adds another platform to the Navy's efforts to strengthen coastal defence and maritime preparedness.

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