INS Anjadip: The Indian Navy’s Newest Defender
The Indian Navy is set to introduce INS Anjadip, a cutting-edge anti-submarine warship, on February 27, 2026, in Chennai. With this vessel, India strengthens its maritime defenses, underscoring its dedication to enhancing underwater combat capabilities and local defense production.
Admiral Dinesh Kumar Tripathi will lead the commissioning ceremony. This milestone is part of India’s broader naval modernization efforts, aimed at boosting national security.
INS Anjadip is the third ship in the Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft project, which plans to construct eight such vessels. Designed for operations in coastal waters, these ships tackle the complex challenge of detecting enemy submarines.
The nickname “Dolphin Hunter” reflects the ship’s advanced technology. Its sonar and weapon systems mimic how dolphins use echolocation to navigate underwater. With a length of 77 meters and a maximum speed of 25 knots, INS Anjadip can respond quickly to maritime threats.
Smart Use of Local Resources
A noteworthy aspect of INS Anjadip is its indigenous construction. Built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE) in Kolkata, this warship embodies India’s push for self-reliance in defense through the Aatmanirbhar Bharat program.
The ship showcases several key technologies:
- Hull-mounted sonar system “Abhay” for underwater detection
- Lightweight torpedoes and anti-submarine rockets
- Integrated combat and platform management systems
- Indigenous sensors for weapon integration
This advanced technology allows for a wide range of military operations beyond just submarine hunting. The INS Anjadip can also perform:
- Coastal surveillance and maritime patrols
- Search and rescue missions
- Low-intensity maritime operations
- Mine-laying and coastal defense support
These multi-role capabilities make the ship effective in both peace and wartime scenarios, encompassing maritime security and humanitarian tasks.
A Bigger Picture: India’s Naval Modernization
INS Anjadip is part of a more extensive naval expansion program that includes:
- Developing eight ASW shallow water craft
- Indigenous destroyers and frigates
- Acquisition of advanced submarines and aircraft carriers
- Deployment of maritime surveillance aircraft and helicopters
This initiative aims not just to enhance security but also to ensure that India can effectively respond to regional challenges, as maritime threats are continually evolving.
In recent months, the growing tensions in various parts of the world, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region, have underscored the importance of strong naval capabilities. According to a report by the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS), the maritime domain is expected to be a focal point for future conflicts, making India’s advancements in naval technology all the more vital.
As it prepares to commission INS Anjadip, the Indian Navy not only demonstrates its commitment to safeguarding the nation’s waters but also its readiness to embrace innovative technologies and strategies. This commitment reflects a growing trend among nations investing in their naval capabilities to ensure peace and security.
INS Anjadip is more than just a ship; it’s a symbol of India’s evolving defense strategy, ensuring its maritime borders are well protected in an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape.
