INS Malwan Joins Indian Navy: India Gets 2nd Indigenous ASW Vessel Built by Cochin Shipyard, Check Details
The Indian Navy has inducted ‘Malwan’, the second indigenous anti-submarine warfare shallow water craft built by Cochin Shipyard. With over 80% local content, the vessel is designed for coastal operations and equipped with advanced sonar and weapons systems. The induction strengthens India’s maritime security and Atmanirbhar Bharat defence goals.
Mumbai, April 1: The Indian Navy has taken delivery of ‘Malwan’, the second Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW SWC) built by Cochin Shipyard Limited, marking a step forward in India’s push for indigenous defence manufacturing. The induction is part of the government’s Atmanirbhar Bharat programme aimed at strengthening domestic capabilities in defence production.
‘Malwan’ is the second of eight planned shallow water anti-submarine warfare vessels being constructed for the Navy, with over 80% indigenous content, reflecting increasing participation from Indian industries, including MSMEs. Indian Navy Was Minutes Away From Sea Strike on Pakistan During Operation Sindoor, Says Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi.
Designed for Coastal and Anti-Submarine Operations
The vessel has been specifically designed for operations in shallow coastal waters, where detecting submarines is often more challenging. At approximately 80 metres in length and with a displacement of around 1,100 tonnes, ‘Malwan’ is equipped with a high-agility waterjet propulsion system. This allows for enhanced manoeuvrability in littoral zones, making it suitable for near-shore defence operations.
Advanced Weapons and Surveillance Systems
‘Malwan’ is fitted with a range of modern combat and surveillance systems to support anti-submarine missions.
These include torpedoes, anti-submarine rockets, advanced sonar systems, and radar-based surveillance equipment. The platform is capable of conducting underwater surveillance, tracking hostile submarines and supporting broader maritime security operations. In addition to its primary role, the vessel can also undertake low-intensity maritime operations and mine warfare, expanding its operational versatility. ‘Anytime Anywhere Anyhow’: Indian Navy Conducts Anti-Ship Firing Drills, Says Fully Prepared for Combat (See Pics and Video).
Indigenous Build and Strategic Significance
Built entirely in India to naval specifications, the vessel highlights the growing maturity of the country’s shipbuilding ecosystem.
With a significant proportion of indigenous components, the project underscores the role of domestic manufacturers and small enterprises in developing complex defence platforms.
The induction is part of a broader effort by the Indian Navy to strengthen its coastal defence and underwater warfare capabilities using homegrown systems.
Legacy Behind the Name
The vessel is named after Malwan, a historic coastal town, continuing the Navy’s tradition of honouring maritime heritage. It also revives the legacy of the earlier INS Malwan, a minesweeper that served the Navy until 2003, linking past service with present-day capability enhancement.
The addition of ‘Malwan’ comes as the Indian Navy continues to expand its fleet with a focus on indigenous platforms. Officials say such projects not only enhance operational readiness but also contribute to long-term strategic autonomy in defence manufacturing and maritime security.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Apr 01, 2026 09:40 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).