The Indian Navy will commission the second Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC) ‘Androth’ at the Naval Dockyard. Vice Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Eastern Naval Command, will preside over the commissioning ceremony.
‘Androth’ represents another advancement in the Navy’s capacity building and indigenization efforts. Built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) in Kolkata, Androth features over 80% indigenous content, highlighting India’s increasing self-sufficiency in maritime capabilities and the utilization of innovative domestic technologies.
The addition of this vessel is anticipated to significantly enhance the Navy’s ASW capabilities, especially in defending against threats in coastal waters. This induction highlights the Navy’s consistent commitment to indigenization, innovation, and the enhancement of its capabilities, while also emphasizing the crucial contribution of GRSE in strengthening India’s maritime security framework.
These new additions – Arnala, Nistar, Udaygiri, Nilgiri, and now Androth – demonstrate the Navy’s balanced approach to expansion within the realm of maritime operations. Moreover, they embody the spirit of self-reliance, incorporating indigenous materials, design expertise, and home-grown innovation from Indian shipyards and industries.