India has recently unveiled the INS Androth, which is part of a series of eight Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW SWC) designed to perform anti-submarine operations in coastal waters, low-intensity maritime operations, and mine laying. The ship was built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) in Kolkata.
INS Androth
The INS Androth has a length of approximately 77.6 meters, a width of 10.5 meters, and a draught of only 2.7 meters. It is powered by three diesel-driven water jets that allow it to reach a maximum speed of 25 knots. The vessel is equipped with a hull-mounted sonar, a low-frequency variable depth sonar, lightweight torpedoes, ASW rockets and mines, a close-in weapon system with a 30mm gun, and 16.7mm stabilized remote-controlled guns.
Despite its small size, the ASW SWC is capable of carrying out full-scale sub-surface surveillance of coastal waters and various surface platforms, and can easily coordinate with aircraft during ASW operations. The INS Androth and its fellow crafts are expected to play a crucial role in securing India’s coastal waters and defending against potential threats to the nation’s maritime security.
The creation of specialized vessels such as the INS Androth helps to develop a combat-ready and future-proof naval force capable of tackling current and emerging challenges in the maritime domain. The launch of the INS Androth demonstrates India’s dedication to strengthening its naval capabilities and ensuring the security of its maritime borders.
