Indian Navy Commissions INS Mangrol

The Indian Navy commissioned INS Mangrol (P82), its third Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC), at the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai on 12 October 2026. Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) built the vessel at Kochi, and the Navy received it on 22 August 2026. Vice Admiral Sanjay Vatsayan, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Western Naval Command, presided over the commissioning ceremony. The craft has more than 80 per cent indigenous content.

Shallow-Water Anti-Submarine Warfare

Anti-submarine warfare (ASW) involves detecting, tracking and countering submarines. INS Mangrol is designed to operate in coastal and shallow waters, where larger warships can face operational limitations. It is the third of eight ASW-SWCs being constructed by CSL for the Indian Navy. Its indigenous content aligns with the Make in India initiative and the Aatmanirbhar Bharat programme in defence manufacturing.

Sensors and Weapons

INS Mangrol carries an Abhay hull-mounted sonar for underwater detection, lightweight torpedoes and an indigenous anti-submarine rocket launcher. It is also equipped with the Maareech Advanced Torpedo Decoy System, which provides a countermeasure against incoming torpedoes. These systems support the craft’s role in detecting and responding to submarine threats in coastal waters.

Propulsion and Operational Roles

Three diesel engines and waterjet propulsion power INS Mangrol. Waterjets provide manoeuvrability in shallow waters. In addition to ASW, the vessel can conduct underwater surveillance, low-intensity maritime operations and tasks related to mine warfare. Its handover to the Navy took place on 22 August 2026, before its commissioning on 12 October 2026.

Important Facts for Exams

• INS Mangrol carries the pennant number P82 and belongs to the ASW-SWC category.
• Cochin Shipyard Limited built INS Mangrol in Kochi.
• The craft uses diesel engines and waterjet propulsion for shallow-water operations.
• The Western Naval Command is one of the Indian Navy’s operational commands.