TFP Bureau, Visakhapatnam, October 6, 2025 – The Indian Navy today commissioned INS Androth, the second Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC), at a ceremonial event held at the Naval Dockyard in Visakhapatnam. The commissioning ceremony was presided over by Vice Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Naval Command, in the presence of senior naval officers, representatives of Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata, and other distinguished dignitaries.
INS Androth, a 77-metre-long vessel with a displacement of around 1,500 tonnes, represents a major milestone in India’s journey towards self-reliance in defence manufacturing. Built with over 80 percent indigenous content, the vessel stands as a testament to the Indian Navy’s ongoing efforts to enhance indigenous shipbuilding and promote homegrown technologies under the vision of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’.
Designed to conduct anti-submarine warfare operations in coastal and shallow waters, INS Androth is equipped with modern weapons, sensors, and communication systems capable of detecting, tracking, and neutralising sub-surface threats with precision. The vessel can also undertake a wide range of missions, including maritime surveillance, search and rescue, coastal defence, and low-intensity maritime operations, making it one of the most versatile assets in India’s naval fleet.
The ship’s propulsion is powered by three waterjet systems driven by marine diesel engines, giving it exceptional agility and manoeuvrability—ideal for operations in littoral zones. Its advanced control systems and automation features enable sustained operations in challenging conditions while ensuring optimal performance and efficiency.
Speaking at the event, Vice Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar highlighted the significance of indigenously designed platforms like INS Androth in strengthening India’s maritime capabilities. He said the induction of the vessel marks another leap in enhancing the Navy’s ability to counter underwater threats and reflects India’s growing prowess in naval engineering and shipbuilding. He also commended the combined efforts of GRSE engineers, naval designers, and the ship’s crew for their dedication to ensuring the project’s success.
The commissioning of INS Androth adds substantial strength to India’s Anti-Submarine Warfare capabilities, especially in countering threats in coastal waters. It follows the induction of the first vessel in the ASW Shallow Water Craft series, marking steady progress in the Indian Navy’s modernisation drive.
Named after Androth, the northernmost island of the Lakshadweep group, the ship carries a name that reflects India’s maritime heritage and strategic geography. The island of Androth has historical and cultural importance, symbolising the Navy’s deep connection with India’s coastal identity and its role in safeguarding national maritime interests.
Following the commissioning, Vice Admiral Pendharkar visited various sections of the ship and was briefed on its design, indigenous systems, and operational capabilities. He interacted with the ship’s commissioning crew and representatives of GRSE, congratulating them on their contribution to strengthening the nation’s naval preparedness.
The induction of INS Androth marks another proud milestone in India’s efforts to build a modern and self-reliant Navy capable of protecting the country’s maritime frontiers. It not only boosts the Indian Navy’s operational readiness but also reaffirms India’s commitment to innovation, indigenisation, and the vision of an ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ at sea.
