INS Mahe: A Milestone in Indian Naval Innovation

Introduction to INS Mahe

The Indian Navy is poised to enhance its maritime capabilities with the commissioning of INS Mahe, the inaugural vessel of the Mahe-class Anti-Submarine Warfare shallow water craft (ASW-SWC). This significant event will take place at the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai.

About Mahe

INS Mahe derives its name from the historic port town of Mahe, located on the Malabar Coast in Puducherry. The vessel is built by Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) in Kochi, as part of India's commitment to indigenous defence manufacturing.

Specifications and Features

Designed specifically for coastal and shallow-water operations, INS Mahe measures 78 meters in length and weighs approximately 1,100 tons.

1. First Ship of the Mahe-Class

INS Mahe is the first vessel in a new class dedicated to Anti-Submarine Warfare, tailored for operations near the coastline.

2. Symbolic Ship Crest

The ship's crest showcases the Urumi, a traditional flexible sword from Kalaripayattu, symbolizing agility, speed, and precision—qualities that are integral to the ship's design and operational role.

3. ASW-SWC Capabilities

INS Mahe is equipped for various critical operations, including:

• Anti-Submarine Warfare in coastal waters
• Low Intensity Maritime Operations (LIMO)
• Mine laying operations
• Surveillance and patrol missions

4. Advanced Weaponry & Sensors

This vessel boasts advanced weaponry and sensor systems, including:

• Lightweight torpedoes
• Multifunctional anti-submarine rocket launchers
• Advanced radars and sonar suites
• Mine-laying equipment

These sophisticated systems empower the ship to effectively detect, track, and neutralize underwater threats, ensuring the security of vital maritime zones.

Operational Roles

INS Mahe is designed to perform a variety of operational roles, including:

• Anti-submarine warfare
• Coastal and underwater surveillance
• Protection of sea lanes
• Security of high-value maritime assets
• Mine-laying and LIMO operations

Significance of the Mahe-Class

The introduction of the Mahe-class marks a crucial advancement in India's indigenous shipbuilding capabilities, featuring over 80% indigenous content. This development not only bolsters the Indian Navy’s coastal defence architecture but also aligns with the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat in defence manufacturing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the significance of INS Mahe in the Indian Navy?
Answer: INS Mahe is the first of its class, enhancing India's coastal security and showcasing indigenous shipbuilding capabilities with over 80% local content.

Q2. Who built INS Mahe?
Answer: INS Mahe was constructed by Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) in Kochi, India, as part of the country's initiative towards self-reliance in defence.

Q3. What are the primary roles of INS Mahe?
Answer: The vessel is designed for anti-submarine warfare, coastal surveillance, mine-laying operations, and protecting maritime assets.

Q4. What are the key features of the Mahe-class?
Answer: Key features include advanced weaponry, multifunctional rocket launchers, and capabilities for shallow-water operations.

Q5. How does INS Mahe contribute to Aatmanirbhar Bharat?
Answer: INS Mahe exemplifies India's commitment to self-reliance in defence manufacturing, reinforcing indigenous capabilities in naval construction.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What is the primary purpose of INS Mahe?
A) Cargo transport
B) Anti-Submarine Warfare
C) Research and development
D) Fishing operations
Correct Answer: B

Question 2: Which shipyard built INS Mahe?
A) Hindustan Shipyard
B) Cochin Shipyard Limited
C) Mazagon Dock
D) L&T Shipbuilding
Correct Answer: B

Question 3: What does ASW stand for in the context of INS Mahe?
A) Advanced Surface Warfare
B) Anti-Submarine Warfare
C) Airborne Surveillance Weaponry
D) Arctic Security Watch
Correct Answer: B

Question 4: What is the length of INS Mahe?
A) 70 meters
B) 80 meters
C) 78 meters
D) 85 meters
Correct Answer: C

Question 5: How much indigenous content does the Mahe-class vessel have?
A) 50%
B) 70%
C) 80%
D) 90%
Correct Answer: C