INS Androth – 2nd anti-submarine warfare shallow water craft (ASW-SWC)

The new vessels strengthen the navy’s anti-submarine, coastal surveillance and mine laying capabilities

By Ajai Shukla

13 Sep, 2025

 

 INS Androth, the second of eight ASW SWCs (anti-submarine warfare shallow water craft) that are being built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata, was delivered to the Indian Navy on 13 Sep 2025. 

The first-of-class of this line of vessels was INS Arnala, which was commissioned in June 2025.

 

The ASW SWC ships have been indigenously designed and constructed at GRSE, Kolkata as per the Classification Rules of Indian Register of Shipping (IRS). 

 

The name ‘Androth’ holds strategic and symbolic significance. It is derived from the Androth Island in the Lakshadweep archipelago, and underscores India’s commitment to safeguarding its vast maritime territories.

 

These ships are 77 metres long and are the largest Indian naval warships propelled by a diesel engine -- waterjet combination. They are equipped with state of the art lightweight torpedoes, indigenous ASW rockets and advanced shallow water sonar, enabling effective submarine detection and engagement in littoral zones. 

 

Androth’s delivery with over 80% indigenous content is yet another milestone in the Indian Navy’s quest for indigenous shipbuilding. It stands as a testament to growing domestic capabilities and reducing dependency on imports.