INS Mangrol

Why in News?

INS Mangrol, the third of eight Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW SWC), was recently delivered to the Indian Navy.

The vessel has been indigenously designed and constructed by Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL), reflecting India's growing capabilities in indigenous warship construction.

About INS Mangrol

INS Mangrol is an Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW SWC) of the Indian Navy. It is the third of the eight ASW SWCs being indigenously designed and constructed by Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL).

The vessel has been primarily designed to conduct anti-submarine warfare operations in shallow coastal waters, where detecting and tracking submarines can be particularly challenging.

Operational Capabilities

INS Mangrol is equipped to perform several maritime security and naval operations. Apart from anti-submarine warfare, it can undertake underwater surveillance, Search and Rescue (SAR) operations and Low Intensity Maritime Operations (LIMO).

The warship also possesses mine-laying capabilities, allowing it to undertake additional maritime warfare tasks.

Name and Significance

The warship has been named ‘Mangrol’ after the historic and strategically significant coastal township of Mangrol in Gujarat’s Surat district.

Features of ASW Shallow Water Craft

The ASW SWC ships are approximately 78 metres long and have a displacement of around 900 tonnes. They can achieve a maximum speed of approximately 25 knots.

The vessels are powered by a Diesel Engine–Waterjet Propulsion system, which is suitable for operations in shallow coastal waters.

Weapons and Sensors

INS Mangrol is equipped with advanced systems designed for anti-submarine warfare. These include lightweight torpedoes, indigenous anti-submarine warfare rockets and shallow-water sonars.

The combination of sonar systems and anti-submarine weapons enables the vessel to detect, track and engage underwater threats in coastal waters.

Indigenous Content

The ASW SWC has more than 80% indigenous content, highlighting the emphasis on Atmanirbhar Bharat in defence production and the increasing role of Indian shipyards and defence industries in naval construction.

Classification by DNV

The vessel has been designed and constructed in accordance with the classification rules of Det Norske Veritas (DNV).

DNV is a leading international classification society and a recognised advisor to the maritime industry.