The Indian Navy recently welcomed a powerful, indigenously constructed anti-submarine warfare ship into its fleet. This strategic addition is set to dramatically boost the nation’s maritime strength, particularly in response to China’s increasing presence in the Indian Ocean region.
Named ‘Androth’, this vessel is the second of eight cutting-edge anti-submarine warfare shallow watercraft (ASW-SWC) and was expertly built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) in Kolkata. Its delivery to the Indian Navy on Saturday, September 13, 2025, marks another significant stride towards India’s goal of self-reliance in defence manufacturing.
The ASW-SWC ships are crucial for upgrading the Navy’s ability to conduct anti-submarine operations and bolster its coastal surveillance. The name ‘Androth’ itself carries deep strategic and symbolic meaning, originating from the Androth Island within the Lakshadweep archipelago, thereby emphasizing India’s unwavering dedication to protecting its extensive maritime territories.
These impressive ships, approximately 77 meters in length, are notable as the largest Indian Naval warships to be powered by a diesel engine-waterjet combination. They are also equipped with advanced lightweight torpedoes and indigenously developed anti-submarine warfare rockets, according to official reports.
The Navy highlighted that ‘Androth’s’ induction is a key achievement in its ongoing indigenous shipbuilding efforts, aligning perfectly with the government’s ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ (Self-Reliant India) vision. With over 80% indigenous content, the vessel stands as a proud testament to India’s growing domestic industrial capabilities and its successful efforts to reduce reliance on foreign imports.