New Delhi: In a significant boost to India’s indigenous naval capabilities, the Indian Navy is set to commission Mahe, the first of eight Mahe-class Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC), at the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai on 24 November 2025.
Built by Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL), Kochi, Mahe is a testament to the Indian Navy’s commitment to Aatmanirbhar Bharat and self-reliance in defence manufacturing. The vessel represents a new generation of shallow-water combatants, designed to operate with agility and precision in littoral zones—areas of increasing strategic importance.
With over 80 percent indigenous content, the Mahe-class exemplifies India’s growing expertise in warship design, construction, and systems integration. The ship is compact yet formidable, equipped with advanced sensors and weaponry tailored for anti-submarine warfare. Its capabilities include submarine detection and engagement, coastal surveillance, and protection of vital maritime assets and sea lanes.
The vessel’s design emphasizes stealth, speed, and maneuverability. These features make it ideal for operations in shallow waters where larger ships may be less effective. The ship’s crest features the Urumi, a flexible sword used in Kalaripayattu, symbolizing lethal grace, agility, and precision—qualities that define the Mahe-class ethos.
Named after the historic coastal town of Mahe on the Malabar Coast, the ship carries forward a legacy of maritime heritage and regional pride. The commissioning of Mahe marks a pivotal moment in India’s naval modernization, ushering in a fleet of eight such vessels that will significantly enhance the Navy’s shallow-water combat capabilities.
This milestone underscores the synergy between the Indian Navy and domestic shipbuilding industries, reinforcing India’s strategic autonomy and maritime strength in the Indo-Pacific region.
