Navy launches ASW SWC ‘Machilipatnam’ built by Cochin Shipyard Limited

• Machilipatnam, the seventh of eight Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW SWC) built by Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) for the Indian Navy, was launched on July 29.

Key points on Mahe-class ASW SWCs:

• The contract for building eight ASW SWC ships was signed between the Ministry of Defence and Cochin Shipyard Limited on April 30, 2019.

• Designed and constructed by Cochin Shipyard Limited, INS Mahe is the lead ship of eight vessels in her class. 

• Malvan was delivered to the Indian Navy on March 31, 2026.

• Malvan, the second of the Mahe-class (ASW SWC) was commissioned on July 22.

• Mangrol, Malpe, Mulki, Magdala and Machilipatnam are the other ships of Mahe-class.

• Keel laying of the eighth and last ship was undertaken on May 29, 2025.

• The Mahe class ASW SWCs have been named after ports of strategic importance along the coast of India, and will look to carry forward the glorious legacy of the erstwhile minesweepers which were their namesake.

• Machilipatnam (BY 529) carries deep historical and cultural significance as it derives its name from the historic port city of Machilipatnam in Krishna district of Andhra Pradesh, known for its rich maritime legacy and flourishing trade along India's eastern seaboard.

• The ship is equipped for underwater surveillance, anti-submarine warfare operations and Low Intensity Maritime Operations (LIMO), along with mine warfare capability. 

• The ship will further bolster coastal defence and enhance maritime domain awareness.

• With indigenous content exceeding 80 per cent, the project showcases the growing capability of the Indian shipbuilding industry.

(The author is a trainer for Civil Services aspirants.)