Navy Commissions Indigenous Anti-Submarine Ship Arnala

Navy Commissions Indigenous Anti-Submarine Ship Arnala

Why in the News?

The Indian Navy will commission INS Arnala on June 18 in Visakhapatnam, marking the induction of the first Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC) class ship. Built under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative, it boosts India’s maritime capabilities and addresses national security concerns.

Indigenous Naval Advancement

• INS Arnala is the first of 16 ASW-SWC-class ships, designed for anti-submarine warfare in shallow waters.
• Built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE) in partnership with L&T Shipbuilders.
• The project reflects the success of Aatmanirbhar Bharat in defence manufacturing.
• The commissioning ceremony will be held at Naval Dockyard, Visakhapatnam on June 18, led by Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Anil Chauhan.

Features and Capabilities of INS Arnala

• The ship is 77 metres long with a gross tonnage of 1,490 tonnes.
• It is India’s largest naval ship powered by a diesel engine-waterjet combination.
• Equipped for subsurface surveillance, search and rescue missions, and low-intensity maritime operations.
• Features over 80% indigenous content, showcasing local defence innovation and engineering.

Strategic Importance

• Enhances India’s anti-submarine warfare capabilities, especially in coastal and shallow water regions.
• Strengthens India’s readiness for maritime threats and boosts operational flexibility.
• Highlights India’s move towards self-reliant naval production, aligning with national security and Make in India goals.