Visakhapatnam, Oct 7 (NationPress) The Indian Navy is set to receive six additional Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Crafts (ASW SWCs) ahead of schedule, as confirmed by Commodore P R Hari, IN (Retd), chairman and managing director of Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) Ltd, during the commissioning ceremony of the INS Androth at the Naval Dockyard in Visakhapatnam.

The INS Androth represents the second vessel in a series of eight ASW SWCs being constructed by GRSE for the Navy.

“GRSE takes pride in constructing these highly capable ASW SWCs for the Indian Navy, and we are optimistic about delivering the remaining vessels according to the contractual timelines,” Cmde Hari stated.

The ship was officially handed over by GRSE on September 13, 2025. Named after Androth Island in the Lakshadweep Archipelago, this warship is also the second in its class to be equipped with an indigenous 30 mm Naval Surface Gun (NSG), manufactured by GRSE.

The Indian Navy has placed an order for 16 advanced ASW SWCs, with GRSE responsible for constructing eight (08) and Cochin Shipyard Ltd for the remaining eight (08). GRSE has already delivered the first two of these 16 vessels.

The ASW SWCs boast nearly 88 percent indigenous content, showcasing GRSE’s dedication to the Government of India’s Atmanirbharta (self-reliance) initiative and the ‘Make in India’ movement.

These vessels are equipped for comprehensive sub-surface surveillance of coastal waters and are capable of conducting Search and Attack Operations. They can also perform coordinated anti-submarine missions alongside aircraft. Featuring advanced Combat Management Systems, these ships will be armed with lightweight torpedoes and anti-submarine warfare rockets, accommodating a crew of 57 personnel, including seven officers.

With three water jets powered by marine diesel engines, the Androth is designed for exceptional agility and maneuverability. A significant advantage is its shallow draught of just 2.7 metres, enabling easy access to coastal areas in pursuit of sub-surface threats. Moreover, these ships are the largest water-jet platforms to be operated by the Navy.

“In this journey of Atmanirbharta, the support from the Indian shipbuilding sector, particularly from GRSE, one of our premier defence PSU shipyards, has been crucial. The construction of Androth, with over 80 percent indigenous content, exemplifies India’s evolving capability to design, develop, and produce sophisticated platforms that uphold the highest operational standards. This vessel symbolizes the remarkable achievements possible when Indian talent, technology, and determination unite towards a common national objective,” Vice Admiral Pendharkar, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Naval Command, stated during the ceremony.

GRSE is currently engaged in building 13 additional warships, including two advanced stealth frigates (P17A), six ASW SWCs, a large Survey Vessel, and four Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessels. Additionally, the shipyard is constructing 30 other vessels, with 13 earmarked for export. GRSE also anticipates finalizing a significant contract to construct five New Generation Corvettes within this financial year.