India’s coastal defence just got a significant upgrade with the commissioning of INS Mahe, the first ship in the new Mahe-class Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft series. This event took place at the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai on November 24, 2025. It’s a big step in India’s journey toward becoming self-reliant in defence technology.
The ceremony was led by Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, highlighting the importance of this vessel in boosting India’s maritime security. The presence of military leaders, industry representatives, and veterans showed the pride associated with this achievement.
INS Mahe is designed for shallow-water combat. It will be part of a fleet that includes a total of eight ships. These vessels are crucial for the growing challenges in India’s coastal waters, where quick response and stealth are key.
The name “Mahe” pays homage to a historic coastal town known for its maritime heritage. The ship’s crest features the Urumi, a flexible sword linked to Kerala’s ancient martial arts, symbolizing precision and efficiency. Its mascot, the Cheetah, stands for speed and alertness, while the motto “Silent Hunters” reflects the vessel’s stealthy capabilities against underwater threats.
INS Mahe represents India’s push for self-sufficiency in defence. Built by Cochin Shipyard Limited, it contains over 80% indigenous content. The project involves advanced technology and systems from respected Indian firms, showing the country can create complex naval vessels independently.
As a shallow-water anti-submarine craft, INS Mahe is tailored for detecting and neutralizing underwater threats, especially in areas where larger ships have limitations. Its features include:
- A high-tech sonar system for accurate detection of submarines.
- A network of integrated weapons and sensors for effective combat.
- Advanced communication systems for real-time data sharing with naval assets.
- Exceptional manoeuvrability for navigating narrow channels.
- Automated systems to assist with long missions and reduce crew fatigue.
The ship’s design enables prolonged patrols and quick responses, fitting seamlessly into India’s larger anti-submarine strategy.
General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Army Staff, spoke at the event, emphasizing INS Mahe’s role in fostering India’s defence self-sufficiency. He noted that modern conflicts span various domains—land, sea, air, cyber, and space—which makes coordinated operations vital. The successful synergy seen in past joint missions, like Operation Sindoor, sets a promising precedent for future collaborations.
INS Mahe will serve as a key defender along India’s coast, working alongside submarines and larger ships. It represents the Indian Navy’s commitment to being Combat Ready and self-sufficient. As India strives for a prosperous future, this vessel showcases technological progress and unwavering dedication to maritime security.
For more information on India’s defence advancements, visit the [Indian Ministry of Defence](https://mod.gov.in) for the latest updates.
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Indian Navy, INS Mahe, Mahe-class ASW-SWC, maritime security, Aatmanirbhar Bharat, defence technology
