India commissions the second Mahaa-class ship INS Malvan for anti-submarine warfare.

The Indian Navy inducted the INS Malvan, the second locally designed and built Mahish class anti-submarine warfare shallow water craft (ASW-SWC), into service on July 22 in Karwar.

Quick Overview

• Vessel: INS Malvan, the second of the Mahish class for shallow water anti-submarine warfare.
• Ceremony: July 22 in Karwar, presided over by Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh.
• Builder: Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) in Kochi.
• Local content: Over 80% (self-reliant India).
• Roles: Underwater surveillance, anti-submarine warfare, mine warfare, low-intensity maritime operations.

Announcement Details

INS Malvan is the second of eight Mahish class vessels and the sixth of 16 ASW-SWC ships planned for the Indian Navy. The induction ceremony was led by Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh, with the presence of Vice Admiral Sanjay Vatsayan, Commander of the Western Naval Command.

Built by Cochin Shipyard (CSL) in Kochi with over 80% local content, in line with India’s self-reliant vision. Its motto ‘Tiger’s Claw’ symbolizes courage, agility, and stealth.

System Context

Shallow water anti-submarine vessels are designed to detect and track enemy submarines in shallow coastal waters, where the maneuverability of larger frigates and destroyers is limited while conventional submarines can hide.

INS Malvan is capable of underwater surveillance, anti-submarine warfare, low-intensity operations, and mine warfare, equipped with an advanced integrated platform management system for agility in shallow waters.

Regional and Strategic Significance

India is enhancing its coastal defense in response to the growing presence of the Chinese navy in the Indian Ocean. The locally built ASW-SWC vessels form an anti-submarine network along the coast. India’s momentum in local naval production parallels Turkey’s localization strategy with Milgem and Ada ships.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is ASW-SWC?

A shallow water anti-submarine vessel designed for hunting submarines near the coasts.

Who built INS Malvan?

Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) in Kochi; with over 80% local content.

Sources

• Naval News — commissioning, builder, and details; July 22, 2026.
• Naval Today — class and program information.