Exciting News: CDS Chauhan to Launch New Anti-Submarine Vessel in Vizag

Visakhapatnam: General Anil Chauhan, the Chief of Defence Staff, will officially commission the Indian Navy’s first-ever Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft, named Arnala, on June 18 at Naval Dockyard, Visakhapatnam. This event will be led by Vice-Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar and will see the participation of senior naval officials and representatives from the shipbuilding companies involved in the project.

Arnala is the first of sixteen vessels in the ASW-SWC class, designed and built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) in Kolkata in collaboration with L&T Shipbuilders. This project showcases the success of India’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative, aimed at boosting domestic defense manufacturing.

The warship, named after the historic Arnala Fort near Vasai, Maharashtra, symbolizes India’s rich maritime history. Just like the fort, which has stood firm against various challenges, Arnala is built to operate effectively in demanding sea conditions. Its advanced design enhances India’s ability to protect its waters from emerging threats.

With over 80% of its components sourced locally, Arnala also highlights the contribution of more than 55 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), fostering local industry and economic growth. The ship features sophisticated systems from top Indian defense firms, including Bharat Electronics Limited and Mahindra Defence.

Arnala is a versatile vessel, suitable for performing various operations such as subsurface surveillance, search and rescue, and low-intensity maritime missions. Measuring 77.6 meters long and weighing over 1,490 tonnes, it is the largest Indian Naval ship powered by a diesel engine-waterjet combination.

The commissioning of Arnala is a significant step for India’s naval capabilities. It strengthens coastal defense and reinforces India’s stance as a self-reliant maritime power in the strategically important Indian Ocean Region.

In recent discussions among defense experts, the rising focus on indigenous shipbuilding aligns with global trends. Countries like Japan and South Korea have similarly prioritized domestic production to enhance their naval strength. According to a recent report by the Indian Ministry of Defence, the defense sector’s contribution to the GDP is expected to rise by 2% over the next decade, highlighting the importance of initiatives like Arnala.

This launch not only enhances naval prowess but also reflects a shift in how nations approach defense manufacturing. As social media buzzes with excitement over Arnala’s commissioning, it signifies a new era for India’s maritime defense landscape. For further insights on the impact of indigenous shipbuilding, refer to this Ministry of Defence report.

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Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Indian Navy, Bharat Electronics Limited.