Indigenous INS Mangrol commissioned into Indian Navy

Visakhapatnam: 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 (Monday).

The commissioning ceremony was presided over by Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Naval Command Vice Admiral Sanjay Vatsayan in the presence of senior officers of the defence forces, representatives of the Ministry of Defence, Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL), industry partners and other distinguished dignitaries.

Indigenously designed and constructed by Cochin Shipyard Limited, Kochi, INS Mangrol represents India’s growing capabilities in warship design, construction and systems integration. With over 80 percent indigenous content, the ship reflects the nation’s commitment to Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India, while highlighting the contribution of Indian defence industries and Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) towards strengthening indigenous naval capabilities.

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 capability 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.

Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Naval Command, Vice Admiral Sanjay Vatsayan, in his address, highlighted the importance of indigenous warships in strengthening India’s maritime surveillance and anti-submarine warfare capabilities, particularly in the evolving maritime security environment. He emphasised the growing capabilities of India’s indigenous shipbuilding industry and the Indian Navy’s continued commitment to technological advancement, operational preparedness and self-reliance in defence manufacturing.

INS Mangrol derives its name from the coastal town and prominent fishing harbour of Mangrol in the Junagadh district of Gujarat. 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 significant 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.

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