India has taken another step towards strengthening and modernizing its Navy with the induction of INS Mangrol, a new anti-submarine warfare vessel. It belongs to the Mahe-class and is designed to protect coastal waters and detect enemy submarines.Built by Cochin Shipyard Limited under the Make in India initiative, INS Mangrol is one of eight Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft planned for the Indian Navy. Around 80% of its equipment and components are made in India, supporting the country’s goal of self-reliance in defence manufacturing. The ship is named after Mangrol, a coastal town in Gujarat.INS Mangrol is approximately 78 metres long and 11 metres wide, with a shallow draught of about 2.7 metres. This design allows it to operate effectively in shallow and narrow coastal waters. Powered by diesel engines and water-jet propulsion, it can reach a maximum speed of 25 knots and travel up to 1,800 nautical miles at 14 knots.
The vessel is equipped with advanced sonar systems, including the DRDO-developed Abhay sonar and a Low-Frequency Variable Depth Sonar (LFVDS). These systems help detect and track underwater threats, including enemy submarines, in challenging coastal environments.Its weapons include a 12-barrel rocket launcher, lightweight torpedo launchers, a 30 mm naval gun and a 12.7 mm remotely operated gun. The vessel can also deploy anti-submarine warfare mines when required.The induction of INS Mangrol will strengthen India’s coastal defence capabilities and improve its ability to counter underwater threats. It also highlights India’s growing capabilities in designing and building advanced warships using indigenous technology.
