The Indian Navy will induct the anti-submarine warfare shallow-water craft Mahe on November 24. Officials said the vessel carries torpedoes, anti-submarine rockets, and advanced radar and sonar systems. The Navy will use these systems to detect underwater threats quickly.

First ship in a new class

Mahe is the first of eight anti-submarine shallow-water craft built by Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL). The Navy named the vessel after the historic port town of Mahe in Puducherry. The name reflects India’s long maritime tradition.

A Navy spokesperson explained the vessel’s role. “With its combination of firepower, stealth and agility, the vessel is built to track submarines, carry out coastal patrols and safeguard key maritime routes,” the spokesperson said.

The Navy received the lead Mahe-class ship on October 23. It arrived with torpedoes and anti-submarine rockets.

A major step in indigenous shipbuilding

The Navy said the commissioning of Mahe at the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai will mark another milestone in India’s shipbuilding journey. The vessel supports the Aatmanirbhar Bharat push in naval design. It is compact, powerful and highly maneuverable. The Navy said these qualities help the ship dominate shallow coastal waters.

Strong indigenous content

More than 80 percent of the Mahe-class components come from Indian suppliers. The Navy said this high indigenous content shows India’s growing strength in warship design and construction.

A symbol of heritage and skill

The ship carries the name of the historic coastal town on the Malabar Coast. Its crest features an Urumi, the flexible sword used in Kalarippayattu, the martial art of Kerala. The Navy said the sword represents agility, precision and “lethal grace.”

A new generation of coastal defenders

The Navy said, “The commissioning of ’Mahe’ will mark the arrival of a new generation of indigenous shallow-water combatants — sleek, swift, and resolutely Indian.” The vessel will strengthen coastal security and protect key maritime routes.