The Indian Navy has taken delivery of ‘Androth’, an indigenously-built anti-submarine warfare ship, in Kolkata on Saturday. Built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE), it marks another stride in India’s drive toward defence self-reliance.
Strengthening Coastal Defence
‘Androth’ is the second of eight shallow water anti-submarine craft being inducted to strengthen the Navy’s anti-submarine and coastal surveillance capabilities. The ship, measuring about 77 metres, is the largest Indian naval warship powered by a diesel engine–waterjet combination. It comes armed with advanced lightweight torpedoes and indigenous anti-submarine rockets.
Symbolic Naming
The vessel is named after Androth Island in Lakshadweep, a choice underscoring India’s focus on protecting its maritime territories and projecting strength in the Indian Ocean amid growing Chinese activity in the region.
Indigenous Edge
According to the Navy, the ship carries over 80 percent indigenous content, reflecting the government’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision. Officials called its delivery a milestone in advancing India’s shipbuilding capacity while reducing reliance on imports.
