Another submarine hunter INS ANDROTH is now part of Indian Navy

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Commissioning of INS Androth at Visakhapatnam.
The Indian Navy Ship ‘Androth’, a state-of-the-art submarine hunter, was commissioned in a ceremonial event held today at the Naval Dockyard in Visakhapatnam.This the second Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC) of Indian Navy.

The ceremony was presided over by Vice Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Eastern Naval Command. Apart from other senior naval officers, representatives of M/s Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata were also present on the occasion.

Commissioning of INS Androth at Visakhapatnam.

Built by GRSE , INS Androth is a shining symbol of the maritime ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ with over 80% indigenous content. ” INS Androth underscores the Indian Navy’s sustained efforts in constantly enhancing indigenous content through homegrown solutions and innovative technologies,” said a press release.

Hunting features:

At 77m in length and displacing about 1500 tonnes, INS Androth is specially designed to undertake anti-submarine operations in coastal and shallow waters. The vessel, a state-of-the-art submarine hunter, is fitted with advanced weapons, sensors, and communication systems, enabling it to detect, track and neutralise sub-surface threats with precision. It can sustain prolonged operations in shallow waters and is equipped with technologically advanced machinery and control systems.

Capabilities :
Powered by three waterjet propulsion systems driven by marine diesel engines, INS Androth is extremely agile and manoeuvrable. Its capabilities extend to Maritime Surveillance, Search and Rescue, coastal defence missions, and Low Intensity Maritime Operations (LIMO) making it a versatile platform for littoral operations.

The commissioning of INS Androth adds a significant punch to the Navy’s ASW capabilities, particularly in countering threats posed by adversaries in the littorals. The ship’s induction underscores the Navy’s continued emphasis on indigenisation, innovation, and capability enhancement, while reaffirming the vital contribution of GRSE in strengthening India’s maritime security architecture.

Why named Androth :
The ship has been named after Androth, the northernmost island of the Lakshadweep group, known for its historical and strategic importance in India’s maritime domain.

Praise for GRSE:
Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Guest emphasised the strategic importance of indigenously built platforms like INS Androth in strengthening India’s maritime prowess and safeguarding national interests. The commissioning marks a major step towards bolstering the Navy’s capability in Anti-Submarine Warfare and reaffirms India’s commitment to regional peace, security, and maritime cooperation.

Upon commissioning,Vice Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar visited various parts of the ship and he was provided a detailed briefing on the construction journey and newer indigenous capabilities of the ship. He also interacted with the Commissioning Crew of the ship and officials of GRSE and congratulated them for their dedicated efforts towards timely deployment of INS Androth.