The bottom molding program for the fourth ship (BY 526, Malpe) and fifth ship (BY 527, Mulki) of Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW SWC) (CSL) project is headed by Chief of Staff Rear, Southern Navy respectively. Admiral Jaswinder Singh and Admiral Superintendent Rear Admiral Subir Mukherjee, NSRY (KOC) on 08 Dec 23 in the presence of Shri Madhu S Nair, CMD, Cochin Shipyard Limited and CSL, Kochi, Indian Navy and other senior officers of the Shipyard. These ships with all major and supporting equipment/systems sourced from indigenous manufacturers are the proud flag bearers of the “Atmanirbhar Bharat” initiative. Following the launch of the first three ASW SWC ships at CSL on 30 Nov 23, the event showcases the 'Make in India' capability of Indian shipyards.
The contract for the construction of eight ASW SWC ships was signed on 30 April 2019 between the Ministry of Defense and Cochin Shipyard Limited. The Mahe class ships will be equipped with indigenously developed state-of-the-art underwater sensors and are designed to undertake anti-submarine operations in coastal waters as well as low intensity maritime operations (LIMO) and mine laying operations.
Delivery of the project's first ship is planned for 2024. The high indigenous content on these ASW SWC ships will ensure large scale defense production by Indian manufacturing units, thereby increasing employment and capacity within the country.
