The Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata, on September 13, 2025, handed over 'Androth,' the second Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW SWC), to the Indian Navy. This vessel is the second in a series of eight ships, symbolizing fully indigenous design and construction.
What is Androth and its significance?
Androth is an Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft designed to combat submarines at sea. Built at GRSE in Kolkata in compliance with the Indian Register of Shipping (IRS) regulations, its name hails from Androth Island in the Lakshadweep archipelago, reflecting India's commitment to protecting its vast maritime boundaries.
The ship enhances the Navy's anti-submarine capability, coastal surveillance, and sea mine deployment. It is approximately 77 meters long, powered by a diesel engine-waterjet combination. The vessel is equipped with advanced light torpedoes, indigenous ASW rockets, and sophisticated shallow water sonar systems to detect and engage submarines in coastal areas.
Source: aajtak
Additionally, Androth is armed with an indigenous 30mm Naval Surface Gun (NSG) manufactured by GRSE, enhancing its firepower. The ship's three waterjets make it remarkably swift, and its 2.7-meter draft allows easy coastal access, ready to face sub-surface threats.
On September 13, 2025, Rear Admiral Ravneesh Seth, CSO (Tech), ENC, accepted Androth on behalf of the Indian Navy during a ceremony at GRSE, Kolkata. This delivery followed the first ship, INS Arnala, delivered on May 8, 2025, and commissioned on June 18, 2025, in Visakhapatnam.
The Indian Navy has ordered a total of 16 advanced ASW Shallow Water Crafts, with eight constructed by GRSE and eight by Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL). GRSE has delivered two of its eight ships so far.
Androth was launched in March 2023, and contractor sea trials were successfully completed in March 2025. GRSE is currently building 13 more warships for the Navy, including two P17A advanced stealth frigates, six ASW SWCs, one survey vessel (large), and four next-generation offshore patrol vessels.
Contributing to Self-Reliant India
With over 88% indigenous content, Androth reduces dependency on imports and enhances domestic capabilities. This ship aligns with the visions of self-reliant India and Make in India initiatives. The accomplishment of GRSE will play a crucial role in strengthening India's maritime security.
