Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Oct 6: The Indian Navy has officially commissioned INS Androth, its second Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft, in a ceremonial event held at the Naval Dockyard in Visakhapatnam. The commissioning was led by Vice Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Eastern Naval Command, in the presence of senior naval officials, dignitaries, and representatives from Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE), the Kolkata-based builder of the vessel.

INS Androth represents a significant stride in enhancing India’s coastal defence capabilities. Designed specifically for anti-submarine operations in shallow and coastal waters, the 77-meter-long vessel displaces around 1,500 tonnes and features over 80% indigenous content—reflecting the Navy’s commitment to self-reliance and technological innovation under the vision of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’.

The ship is equipped with cutting-edge weapons, sonar systems, and advanced communication and control technologies that allow it to detect and neutralise underwater threats with precision. Powered by three marine diesel engines and waterjet propulsion systems, INS Androth offers high agility and manoeuvrability, making it well-suited for a variety of littoral missions including maritime surveillance, search and rescue, coastal defence, and low-intensity maritime operations.

Named after the strategically significant Androth Island in Lakshadweep, the vessel strengthens the Navy’s anti-submarine warfare posture and reinforces India’s commitment to regional maritime security and cooperation. Its commissioning also highlights the critical role of GRSE in advancing India’s indigenous shipbuilding capabilities.

Following the commissioning, Vice Admiral Pendharkar toured the ship, received briefings on its construction and systems, and interacted with the commissioning crew and GRSE officials, commending their role in bringing this advanced platform into service.