Kochi: The Indian Navy on Wednesday strengthened its coastal defence capabilities with the launch of Machilipatnam, the seventh of eight Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW SWC) being built by Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL). The vessel, developed with more than 80 per cent indigenous content, marks another milestone in India’s drive to enhance self-reliance in defence manufacturing and bolster maritime security.
The warship, designated BY 529, was launched by Mrs Goolrukh Anand in the presence of Vice Admiral Atul Anand, Additional Secretary, Department of Military Affairs. The ceremony was attended by senior officials of the Indian Navy, Cochin Shipyard Limited and other dignitaries.
Named after the historic port city of Machilipatnam in Andhra Pradesh’s Krishna district, the vessel draws inspiration from the city’s maritime legacy and reflects the Navy’s continued focus on protecting India’s maritime interests.
The ASW Shallow Water Craft is equipped to undertake underwater surveillance, anti-submarine warfare operations, low-intensity maritime operations and mine warfare. According to the Ministry of Defence, the platform will enhance coastal defence capabilities while strengthening the Navy’s maritime domain awareness.
The launch is the latest milestone in the ASW SWC programme, which the Ministry said underscores the growing capabilities of India’s indigenous shipbuilding industry. With indigenous content exceeding 80 per cent, the project is expected to significantly improve the Indian Navy’s operational readiness to safeguard the country’s maritime interests in the Indian Ocean Region.
The development comes as India continues to expand indigenous defence manufacturing under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative, with the ASW SWC programme aimed at delivering advanced, domestically built warships capable of strengthening the Navy’s anti-submarine warfare capability and reinforcing maritime security.
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