INS Malvan: Indigenous Mahe-class Anti-Submarine Warfare Craft

Why in News?

INS Malvan is the second vessel of the Mahe-class Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC) built for the Indian Navy. The warship was designed and constructed by Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL), Kochi, and was delivered to the Navy on 31 March 2026.

The induction of INS Malvan marks another milestone in India’s indigenous naval shipbuilding programme. With over 80% indigenous content, the vessel supports the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative and enhances the Indian Navy’s capability to protect coastal and littoral waters against underwater threats.

What is the Mahe-class ASW-SWC?

The Mahe-class Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC) is designed for operations in shallow coastal and littoral waters, where detecting submarines is more challenging.

Primary Roles of Mahe-class ASW-SWC

• Anti-submarine warfare (ASW)
• Mine warfare operations
• Low Intensity Maritime Operations (LIMO)
• Coastal surveillance and patrol

These vessels are intended to strengthen India’s maritime security and safeguard strategic coastal areas.

Design and Technical Features of INS Malvan

INS Malvan is equipped with modern propulsion and weapon systems to perform multiple naval missions.

Key Features of INS Malvan

• Length: About 80 metres
• Displacement: Around 1,100 tonnes
• Powered by waterjet propulsion for better manoeuvrability in shallow waters
• Equipped with:
  • Advanced surveillance sensors
  • Torpedoes
  • Multifunctional anti-submarine rocket systems

The use of waterjet propulsion improves speed, agility, and operational efficiency in coastal environments.

Replacement of Abhay-class Corvettes

INS Malvan will gradually replace the ageing Abhay-class corvettes, which have served as the Indian Navy’s coastal anti-submarine platforms for decades. The new Mahe-class vessels offer improved technology, greater indigenous content, and enhanced operational capabilities.

Important Facts for Exams

• INS Malvan is the second Mahe-class ASW-SWC of the Indian Navy.
• It was delivered on 31 March 2026.
• Built by Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL), Kochi.
• The vessel has more than 80% indigenous content.
• ASW-SWC stands for Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft.
• These vessels operate in coastal and littoral waters.
• Waterjet propulsion provides better manoeuvrability in shallow waters.
• LIMO (Low Intensity Maritime Operations) includes:
  • Coastal patrol
  • Maritime surveillance
  • Limited combat operations
• INS Malvan will replace the Abhay-class corvettes in the Indian Navy.