Indian Navy Commissions INS Androth in Vizag

Indian Navy Commissions ASW Ship ‘Androth’ in Visakhapatnam

Why in the News ?

The Indian Navy is set to commission INS Androth, the second Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC), in Visakhapatnam today. Built by GRSE, Kolkata, this commissioning strengthens India’s indigenous defence capability and boosts naval preparedness against threats in littoral waters. The event is expected to positively impact defense industry stocks on the BSE Sensex, potentially influencing future repo rate unchanged decisions by factoring in defense sector growth and fixed capital formation.

Indian Navy Commissions INS Androth in Vizag

Strategic Importance of INS Androth:

  • INS Androth will enhance the Navy’s anti-submarine warfare (ASW) capabilities.
  • Its deployment will help in countering submarine threats in shallow and coastal waters.
  • The ship is part of the Navy’s broader push for capability enhancement and maritime security, potentially influencing foreign exchange reserves allocation for defense and impacting inflation targeting strategies within the liquidity adjustment facility framework.
  • Commissioning marks a step forward in indigenisation, reducing reliance on imports and boosting domestic investment activity, which could contribute to private consumption and influence merchandise exports.
  • The ceremony is being presided over by Vice Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar.

Indigenisation and Self-Reliance in Defence

  • The commissioning showcases India’s defence indigenisation efforts under ‘Make in India’, potentially attracting increased FDI inflows in the sector and addressing stressed assets in the defense industry.
  • With over 80% indigenous content, it boosts domestic shipbuilding industries and their capacity utilization, potentially affecting credit growth in the sector and influencing services exports.
  • It reflects India’s focus on blue water navy aspirations and regional dominance.
  • Enhances the country’s maritime deterrence in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
  • Strengthens security in coastal states and island territories by addressing underwater threats, contributing to overall financial stability and potentially influencing fine tuning operations related to regional economic development.

Key Facts : INS Androth
● ASW-SWC Class: Specialised vessels designed for anti-submarine operations in shallow waters.
● INS Androth: Second ship in this class after the first, INS Arnala.
● Builder: Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata.
● Indigenous Content: Over 80% Indian components, symbolising Atmanirbhar Bharat in defence.
● Naming: Named after Androth Island in Lakshadweep, reflecting India’s maritime geography.