INS Arnala: India’s First Indigenous Anti-Submarine Shallow Water Craft Delivered

In a significant stride towards maritime self-reliance and defence preparedness, the Indian Navy has received its first Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW SWC), named ‘Arnala’, on May 8, 2025. The vessel, designed and constructed under the public-private partnership of Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) and L&T Shipyard, represents a key achievement in India’s indigenisation efforts under the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative.

Why in News?

The Indian Navy has taken delivery of ‘Arnala’, the first in a series of eight ASW SWCs, marking a major milestone in indigenous shipbuilding and enhancing India’s coastal anti-submarine capabilities. This move aligns with the government’s focus on self-reliant defence manufacturing.

Key Points

• Ship Name: Arnala (named after the historic Arnala Fort in Maharashtra)
• Delivered On: 8 May 2025
• Designed & Built By: Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata
• Built At: L&T Shipyard, Kattupalli
• Ship Type: Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW SWC)
• Length: 77 meters
• Propulsion System: Diesel Engine-Waterjet – Largest Indian warship with this combination

Objectives & Capabilities

• Underwater surveillance in shallow coastal waters
• Search & Rescue operations
• Mine laying capabilities
• Low Intensity Maritime Operations (LIMO)
• Enhance Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) capability near coastlines

Strategic Significance

• Over 80% indigenous content, reinforcing India’s defence self-reliance
• Developed under Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model
• Adds muscle to the Indian Navy’s shallow water warfare capabilities
• Fulfills operational needs for quick, nimble ASW vessels in littoral zones

Background Facts

• Arnala is part of the Navy’s project to induct eight ASW SWCs
• All ships under this class will be indigenously designed and built
• Reflects commitment to Make in India in defence sector