Mumbai, April 1: The Indian Navy has welcomed the ‘Malwan,’ its second Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft. Built by Cochin Shipyard Limited, this new vessel supports India’s goal for self-sufficiency in defense manufacturing under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
‘Malwan’ is one of eight planned shallow water crafts for the Navy, boasting over 80% indigenous content. This marks a significant shift toward using local resources, including contributions from small and medium enterprises.
Designed for shallow coastal waters, ‘Malwan’ measures around 80 meters long and weighs 1,100 tonnes. Its high-agility waterjet propulsion system allows for impressive maneuverability, enhancing its effectiveness in coastal defense operations.
Equipped with modern combat systems, ‘Malwan’ features torpedoes, anti-submarine rockets, and advanced sonar and radar systems. This makes it capable of underwater surveillance and tracking hostile submarines, contributing to broader maritime security. It can also perform low-intensity maritime operations and mine warfare, showcasing its versatility.
With the increasing sophistication of India’s shipbuilding capabilities, ‘Malwan’s’ construction emphasizes the importance of domestic manufacturing in defense. The project illustrates how local industries are evolving and playing a crucial role in India’s defense strategy.
The vessel is named after Malwan, a historic coastal town, and continues the Navy’s tradition of honoring its maritime history. It also pays homage to an earlier INS Malwan, which served until 2003, linking past naval efforts to current capabilities.
This addition to the fleet comes as the Indian Navy enhances its defense strategies with homegrown technology. Experts, like Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, have emphasized the importance of such projects in boosting operational readiness and achieving strategic autonomy. The Navy’s commitment to indigenization aligns with global trends where countries are looking to reduce reliance on foreign defense systems.
In a recent survey, 73% of defense experts stated that a strong indigenous defense manufacturing base is critical for national security. As India’s naval power continues to expand, initiatives like ‘Malwan’ not only improve operational capabilities but also contribute to economic growth through job creation in technology and manufacturing sectors.
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