On September 9, 2024, the Indian Navy launched two anti-submarine warfare (ASW) shallow water crafts, named Malpe and Mulki, at Cochin Shipyard Ltd. (CSL) in Kochi. These vessels are the fourth and fifth to be launched under the Eight Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft project, initiated by a contract signed on April 30, 2019, between the Indian Ministry of Defence and CSL.

A Step Towards Self-Reliance

The project is part of India's 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' (self-reliant India) initiative, aimed at reducing dependence on foreign defense imports. Over 80% of the materials used in these ships are indigenous, highlighting India's progress in domestic defense manufacturing. The Ministry of Defence emphasized that this achievement underscores "our strides in indigenous shipbuilding, towards Aatmanirbhar Bharat."

Ship Specifications and Capabilities

Malpe and Mulki are designed to bolster India’s coastal defense and anti-submarine warfare capabilities. Each vessel measures 78 meters in length, displaces approximately 900 tons, and can reach speeds of up to 25 knots with an endurance of 1,800 nautical miles. They are equipped with advanced, locally developed underwater sensors to detect enemy submarines and perform anti-submarine operations in shallow waters, low-intensity maritime operations, and mine-laying activities.

Naming Tradition and Symbolism

The vessels are named after two significant ports on India's coastline—Malpe and Mulki—honoring the legacy of the minesweepers that once served the Indian Navy. This naming tradition reflects India's rich maritime history and continues the legacy of previous coastal defense vessels.

Launch Ceremony

The launch ceremony was attended by Vice Admiral V Srinivas, Flag Officer Commanding in Chief of the Southern Naval Command. The ships were launched by Mrs. Vijaya Srinivas, adhering to traditional maritime customs. The event highlighted India's ongoing commitment to enhancing its maritime defense capabilities.

Project Timeline and Future Goals

The project to build eight ASW crafts was first signed in April 2019, with contracts divided between Cochin Shipyard Ltd. and Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) in Kolkata. Although the original delivery schedule faced delays, the recent launches of Malpe and Mulki reflect a renewed focus on achieving defense production targets.

Broader Defense Strategy

On the same day, Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan unveiled India’s Joint Doctrine for Amphibious Operations during a Chiefs of Staff Committee (COSC) meeting. This doctrine aims to provide guidance for conducting amphibious operations in complex military environments, further demonstrating India's commitment to enhancing overall military readiness.

The launch of Malpe and Mulki signifies India’s dedication to building a self-sufficient defense sector and advancing its naval capabilities. These vessels are expected to significantly enhance India’s shallow water anti-submarine warfare capabilities, aligning with the goals of the 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' initiative and strengthening India's position as a capable global defense power.

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