New Delhi, Oct 6 (NationPress) The Indian Navy has officially commissioned INS Androth, marking the inauguration of the second Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft, during a ceremonial event at the Naval Dockyard in Visakhapatnam.

The event was led by Vice Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar, the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Eastern Naval Command, alongside senior naval officials, representatives from Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata, and notable civilian guests, as stated in an official release.

During his address, the Chief Guest highlighted the strategic significance of domestically constructed platforms like INS Androth, which play a crucial role in enhancing India's maritime strength and protecting national interests.

This commissioning represents a pivotal advancement in the Navy's capacity for Anti-Submarine Warfare and reinforces India's dedication to regional stability, security, and maritime collaboration.

INS Androth epitomizes the vision of a maritime Aatmanirbhar Bharat, boasting over 80 percent indigenous content, which reflects the Indian Navy's ongoing commitment to integrating homegrown solutions and innovative technologies.

Measuring 77 meters in length and displacing approximately 1,500 tonnes, INS Androth is expertly designed for executing anti-submarine missions in coastal and shallow waters, according to the statement.

This advanced vessel is equipped with state-of-the-art weaponry, sensors, and communication systems that empower it to precisely detect, track, and neutralize underwater threats. It is capable of conducting extensive operations in shallow waters and is outfitted with cutting-edge machinery and control systems.

Driven by three waterjet propulsion systems powered by marine diesel engines, INS Androth exhibits remarkable agility and maneuverability. Its operational capabilities encompass Maritime Surveillance, Search and Rescue, coastal defense missions, and Low Intensity Maritime Operations (LIMO), making it a versatile asset for littoral tasks.

The commissioning of INS Androth greatly enhances the Navy’s ASW capabilities, particularly in addressing threats from adversaries in coastal regions. Its induction underscores the Navy’s ongoing focus on indigenization, innovation, and capability advancement, while also recognizing the essential role played by GRSE in bolstering India’s maritime security framework.

Named after Androth, the northernmost island of the Lakshadweep archipelago, known for its historical and strategic relevance in India’s maritime landscape, this ship signifies a key milestone in India’s journey toward a modern and self-reliant Navy, committed to protecting the nation’s maritime interests across various conflict scenarios.

Following the formal ceremony, the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Eastern Naval Command inspected several sections of the ship and received an in-depth briefing on the construction process and innovative indigenous capabilities of INS Androth.

He also engaged with the commissioning crew and representatives from GRSE.