Indian Navy launches Anti-Submarine Warfare ships INS Malpe and INS Mulki at Cochin

Indian Navy launches Anti-Submarine Warfare ships INS Malpe and INS Mulki at Cochin

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangalore, September 10, 2024: In a significant boost to India’s maritime defense, the Indian Navy launched two advanced anti-submarine warfare (ASW) vessels, INS Malpe and INS Mulki, at Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) on September 9. Named after the prominent coastal towns of Malpe and Mulki in Karnataka’s Tulunadu region, the launch is expected to evoke pride among the local communities.

The vessels, which are part of the Navy’s ASW Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC) project, are equipped with indigenously developed underwater sensors designed to detect and neutralize enemy submarines and underwater threats. With a length of 78 meters and a displacement of 900 tons, the ships can reach speeds of up to 25 knots and operate for 1,800 nautical miles without refueling. The vessels boast over 80% indigenous content, reflecting India’s growing expertise in defense manufacturing.

Named after key ports along India’s western coastline in Karnataka, INS Malpe and INS Mulki are engineered to bolster India’s coastal defense and anti-submarine warfare capabilities. These ships are adept at shallow water operations, low-intensity maritime missions, and mine-laying activities, making them a vital addition to India’s naval strength.

The choice of names for these ships follows the naval convention for this class of vessels, carrying forward the legacy of earlier vessels. Both INS Malpe and INS Mulki were previously Mahé-class minesweepers commissioned on May 10, 1984, serving the Navy until their decommissioning in 2003 and 2006, respectively.

The ships were ceremonially launched by Mrs. Vijaya Srinivas, wife of Vice Admiral V. Srinivas, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Southern Naval Command. Vice Admiral Srinivas highlighted the significance of the event, stating, “The launch of INS Malpe and INS Mulki marks a key step towards self-reliance in defense manufacturing.”

With their cutting-edge technology, local roots, and historical legacy, INS Malpe and INS Mulki represent a proud moment for Karnataka and a major stride in India’s naval defense.