The Indian Navy has strengthened its maritime defence capabilities with the commissioning of Mangrol, the third Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC) built by Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL), Kochi. The vessel was commissioned on October 12, 2026, at the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai, marking another important step in India’s efforts to strengthen its indigenous naval capabilities.
The commissioning ceremony was presided over by Vice Admiral Sanjay Vatsayan, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Western Naval Command.
Mangrol to Strengthen Coastal Security
Designed to detect and counter submarine threats in coastal and shallow waters, Mangrol will play an important role in strengthening the Indian Navy’s anti-submarine warfare capabilities. Such vessels are particularly useful in areas where larger warships may face operational limitations, including near ports, harbours and coastal approaches.
The craft can work alongside maritime patrol aircraft, helicopters and other naval vessels to improve underwater surveillance and help counter potential submarine threats.
Equipped with Advanced Weapons and Sensors
Mangrol features a range of weapons and sensors designed for anti-submarine operations. Its equipment includes the Abhay hull-mounted sonar, lightweight torpedoes, an indigenous anti-submarine rocket launcher and the Maareech Advanced Torpedo Decoy System.
The vessel is powered by three diesel engines with waterjet propulsion, providing the manoeuvrability required to operate in shallow coastal waters. In addition to anti-submarine warfare, it can support underwater surveillance, low-intensity maritime operations and mine warfare-related tasks.
More Than 80% Indigenous Content
One of the key features of Mangrol is its high level of indigenous content, which exceeds 80 per cent. Built by Cochin Shipyard Limited in Kochi, the vessel reflects India’s growing expertise in domestic warship construction and the integration of advanced naval systems.
The project also supports the government’s Make in India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiatives, which aim to strengthen domestic manufacturing and reduce dependence on foreign defence equipment.
The Indian Navy received the vessel from Cochin Shipyard Limited on August 21, 2026, ahead of its commissioning in October.
The Story Behind the Name INS Mangrol
The vessel takes its name from Mangrol, a coastal town and prominent fishing harbour in Gujarat’s Junagadh district. It also carries forward the legacy of the earlier INS Mangrol (M85), a minesweeper that served the Indian Navy until April 7, 2004.
The continued use of the name reflects the Navy’s tradition of preserving the legacy of its former warships while introducing new vessels with modern capabilities.
A Boost for India’s Maritime Defence
The commissioning of Mangrol adds another indigenous platform to the Indian Navy’s fleet at a time when underwater surveillance and coastal security remain important priorities. Its specialised design and equipment will support operations in shallow waters and strengthen the Navy’s ability to protect key coastal infrastructure.
With more than 80 per cent indigenous content and systems designed for modern anti-submarine operations, Mangrol represents a significant addition to India’s ongoing efforts to build a capable, self-reliant naval force.
META DESCRIPTION
