Indian Navy’s First Anti-Submarine Warfare Ship Arnala
The Indian Navy is set to commission its first Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC), named Arnala, on 18 June 2025. This event will take place at the Naval Dockyard in Visakhapatnam, presided over by Chief of Defence Staff, General Anil Chauhan. The commissioning of Arnala signifies a major advancement in India’s naval capabilities and reflects the nation’s commitment to self-reliance in defence manufacturing.
Overview of Arnala
Arnala is the first of sixteen ASW-SWC class ships designed and constructed by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE) in collaboration with L&T Shipbuilders. This project is a part of the Public-Private Partnership model. The vessel was delivered to the Indian Navy on 8 May 2025.
Indigenous Content and Economic Impact
More than 80% of Arnala’s components are indigenous. It incorporates advanced systems from prominent Indian defence firms such as Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), L&T, Mahindra Defence, and MEIL. The construction process involved over 55 Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), boosting the domestic defence manufacturing sector and contributing to economic growth.
Design and Specifications
Arnala measures 77.6 meters in length and has a gross tonnage of over 1490 tonnes. It is notable for being the largest Indian Naval warship propelled by a Diesel Engine-Waterjet combination. The ship is designed for various anti-submarine warfare operations, including subsurface surveillance, search and rescue missions, and low-intensity maritime operations.
Historical Significance of the Name
The name Arnala is derived from Arnala Fort, located off Vasai, Maharashtra. Built in 1737 by the Marathas, the fort was strategically important for monitoring the Vaitarna River mouth and defending the northern Konkan coast. The ship’s design pays homage to this historical significance, embodying resilience and strength.
Ship’s Crest and Motto
The ship’s crest features a stylised Auger Shell against a blue background. This symbol represents resilience, vigilance, and dominance in challenging environments. The ship’s motto, Arnave Shauryam, translates to Valour in the Ocean. This reflects the operational ethos of the vessel, which is designed to perform effectively in the maritime domain.
Strategic Importance
The commissioning of Arnala marks a transformative moment for the Indian Navy. It strengthens coastal defence and reinforces India’s position as a self-reliant maritime power in the strategically vital Indian Ocean Region. This advancement aligns with the broader objectives of enhancing national security and promoting indigenous defence capabilities.
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