Mumbai | In a landmark moment for India’s maritime capability, the Indian Navy commissioned INS Mahe, the first vessel of the indigenously built Mahe-class Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW–SWC). The warship, designed and constructed by Cochin Shipyard Limited, marks a significant addition to India’s coastal defence architecture.
Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi was the Chief Guest at the commissioning ceremony held at the Mumbai Naval Dockyard. Addressing the event, he said, “Land, sea and air are not separate domains but parts of one unified national security framework. When all three forces operate together, the country’s defence becomes strongest.”
Joint Strength, Indigenous Pride
General Dwivedi underscored that modern warfare has transformed into a multi-domain arena, spanning land, sea, air, information and cyber space. He highlighted that the success of Operation Sindoor proved India’s growing strength in joint operations across the three services.
Congratulating the crew of INS Mahe, the Army Chief used the naval compliment “Bravo Zulu,” signalling exceptional performance. He noted that the induction of the warship reflects India’s rising indigenous defence capabilities, adding that over 75 percent of the Navy’s capital acquisitions are now sourced from within the country — ranging from warships and submarines to advanced sonar systems and high-end weapon platforms.
A Ship Steeped in Heritage and Capability
General Dwivedi also reflected on the significance of the ship’s name. Mahe — a historic coastal town — represents India’s rich maritime heritage. The vessel’s crest features the urumi, a traditional flexible sword of Kalaripayattu, symbolising agility, precision and combat readiness. The ship’s mascot, a cheetah, represents speed and sharp focus, while its motto, Silent Hunters, denotes stealth and vigilance.
He reminded the crew that the responsibility of the ship now rests on their shoulders. “A warship is only as strong as the sailors who operate it,” he said. “The nation sleeps peacefully because our naval warriors remain vigilant at sea.”
Strengthening Coastal Security
INS Mahe has been engineered for shallow-water anti-submarine operations, equipped with advanced sonar, modern communication systems, search-and-attack capabilities and a stealth-friendly design. Its waterjet propulsion allows efficient manoeuvring in littoral zones.
The ship will replace older Abhay-class vessels and extend India’s coastal surveillance reach, covering up to 200 nautical miles (around 370 km). In the coming years, INS Mahe will form the frontline of India’s coastal defence and operate seamlessly with larger warships, submarines and maritime aircraft during joint missions.
A Step Forward for the Blue Water Ambition
General Dwivedi emphasised the Navy’s growing role not only in sea security but also in regional diplomacy and global maritime engagement. He said India’s defence forces are undergoing a “Decade of Transformation,” with jointness and integration at its core.
As the ceremony concluded, the Army Chief extended best wishes to the commanding officer and crew of INS Mahe. “Every time you sail with the Tricolour on this ship, remember that the pride and trust of the entire nation sails with you. May every mission be successful and every journey safe.”
With the commissioning of INS Mahe, India has taken another decisive step in bolstering its maritime readiness and advancing its indigenous shipbuilding capabilities.
