The Indian Navy commissioned INS Mangrol (P82), the third Mahe-class Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC), at the Naval Dockyard, Mumbai, on October 12. The commissioning ceremony was presided over by Vice Admiral Sanjay Vatsayan, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Naval Command.
The ceremony was attended by senior officers of the Defence Forces, representatives of the Ministry of Defence, Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL), industry partners and other dignitaries.
Indigenous Design and Construction
Indigenously designed and constructed by Cochin Shipyard Limited, Kochi, INS Mangrol represents India’s capabilities in warship design, construction and systems integration. With over 80 per cent indigenous content, the ship reflects the country’s commitment to Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India, while highlighting the contribution of Indian defence industries and Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to strengthening indigenous naval capabilities.
Advanced Capabilities for Coastal Operations
Designed for operations in coastal and shallow waters, INS Mangrol is equipped to undertake Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW), underwater surveillance, Low-Intensity Maritime Operations (LIMO) and mine warfare-related tasks. Its advanced sensors, sonar and weapon systems enhance its ability to detect, track and counter underwater threats in the challenging littoral environment.
Powered by three diesel engine-driven waterjet propulsion units, the ship offers high manoeuvrability and rapid response, essential for operations in shallow and confined waters, according to the Ministry of Defence.
Legacy of the Name INS Mangrol
INS Mangrol derives its name from the coastal town and prominent fishing harbour of Mangrol in Gujarat’s Junagadh district. The ship also carries forward the legacy of the erstwhile INS Mangrol (M85), a minesweeper that served the Indian Navy until April 2004, continuing the naval tradition of preserving the names of distinguished warships.
The commissioning of INS Mangrol marks another milestone in strengthening the Indian Navy’s anti-submarine warfare capabilities and coastal defence preparedness. The ship will contribute to safeguarding India’s coastal approaches and maritime interests, enhancing maritime domain awareness and countering underwater threats. Its induction reinforces the Navy’s commitment to maritime security, regional stability and self-reliance in warship construction in furtherance of India’s maritime interests in the Indian Ocean Region.
-PIB Inputs
