INS Malvan Joins the Fleet, Indian Navy's Anti-Submarine Power Gets a Boost
India’s maritime strength has received a significant boost with the commissioning of INS Malvan, the second indigenously designed and built Mahe-class Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC). Commissioned at the Naval Base in Karwar, the advanced warship marks another milestone in the Indian Navy’s journey towards a stronger, more self-reliant future.Built with over 80 per cent indigenous content, INS Malvan is designed to detect, track and neutralise enemy submarines lurking in India’s coastal waters. More than just a new addition to the fleet, it represents India's growing expertise in defence manufacturing and reinforces the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat.The commissioning ceremony was attended by Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, Chief of the Air Staff, Vice Admiral Sanjay Vatsayan, senior naval officers, defence officials, veterans and representatives from Cochin Shipyard Ltd.Built in India, Built for IndiaINS Malvan is a shining example of India's rapidly advancing naval shipbuilding capabilities. Built by Cochin Shipyard Limited with over 80% indigenous content, the vessel showcases the remarkable progress made by India's indigenous defence industry. The warship forms part of the Navy's larger plan to modernise its fleet while reducing dependence on foreign technology.Its impressive indigenous content also highlights the success of collaborative efforts between the Indian Navy, shipbuilders and domestic defence manufacturers in creating world-class naval platforms.Meet the Navy's 'Silent Claws'The new warship carries a legacy as well as a powerful identity. Named after the earlier inshore minesweeper INS Malvan, which faithfully served the Navy for nearly two decades before being decommissioned in 2003, the new vessel honours its predecessor while embracing cutting-edge technology.Its crest proudly displays the 'Bagh Nakha' (Tiger's Claw)—a symbol of stealth, precision and offensive capability. Fittingly, its motto, "Silent Claws," reflects its mission: operating quietly beneath the radar while delivering swift and decisive action against underwater threats.Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Air Chief Marshal AP Singh emphasised the importance of safeguarding sea lines of communication that support India's growing economy and global trade. With geopolitical uncertainties increasing across the world, secure maritime routes have become more important than ever. Advanced vessels like INS Malvan will play a crucial role in protecting India's coastline, strategic ports and critical shipping lanes from underwater threats.A New Chapter in India's Maritime StoryVice Admiral Sanjay Vatsayan described the commissioning as another landmark in India's maritime journey. As per a report in The Times of India, INS Malvan is the first Indian naval ship to be commissioned at Karwar and the seventh warship inducted into the Navy this year, with another 12 vessels expected to join the fleet in the coming months.Each new induction reflects India's determination to strengthen its maritime capabilities while building a defence ecosystem rooted in innovation and self-reliance.As INS Malvan sets sail, it carries not only advanced technology but also the confidence of a nation steadily securing its seas with ships designed, built and powered by Indian expertise.
