The sixth Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW SWC), named BY 528 (Magdala), was launched on Saturday at Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) in Kochi, marking a significant step in the Indian Navy’s pursuit of self-reliance in shipbuilding.
The launch ceremony, conducted in accordance with naval maritime tradition, was led by Renu Rajaram in the presence of Vice Admiral Rajaram Swaminathan, Controller of Warship Production and Acquisition, along with senior officials from the Indian Navy and CSL.
Indigenously designed and constructed by CSL, the vessel is part of a series of eight ASW SWCs. The first ship in the series is slated for delivery by the end of October 2025. Equipped with advanced technology, these ships feature three diesel engine-powered waterjets, role-defining sensors including a Hull Mounted Sonar and Low Frequency Variable Depth Sonar, and firepower comprising state-of-the-art torpedoes, anti-submarine rockets, an NSG-30 gun, and a 12.7 mm SRCG. The vessels are designed to enhance underwater domain awareness, anti-submarine warfare, and mine-laying capabilities.