The Indian Navy has taken a major step forward in its maritime capabilities with the induction of INS Arnala Ship, the first in a series of 16 indigenously designed and built Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC) ships. Commissioned into the Eastern Naval Command at Visakhapatnam, INS Arnala represents a significant upgrade in India’s coastal defence strategy and highlights the country’s increasing self-reliance in defence manufacturing.
#GRSE created history today with the delivery of INS Arnala, the first ship of the Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW SWC) class, to the #IndianNavy. The acceptance documents (D448) were signed by Cmde PR Hari, IN (Retd), Chairman & Managing Director, GRSE, and Cdr… pic.twitter.com/ublNoFL590
— GRSE – Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Ltd (@OfficialGRSE) May 8, 2025
What is INS Arnala?
INS Arnala is a next-generation warship that marks the beginning of a new era for India’s Navy. Designed by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE) in collaboration with L&T Shipbuilders, this vessel is part of a larger initiative to replace the ageing Abhay-class corvettes. Named after the historic Arnala Fort off the coast of Vasai, Maharashtra, this vessel reflects India’s deep-rooted maritime legacy.
With a length of 77.6 meters and a gross tonnage of 1,490 tonnes, INS Arnala is the largest Indian naval warship to use a Diesel Engine-Waterjet propulsion system. It was formally handed over to the Navy on May 8 at the L&T Shipyard in Kattupalli, Tamil Nadu.
Indigenous Powerhouse: Built in India, Built for India
One of the most commendable aspects of INS Arnala is its 80% indigenous content, reflecting the core principles of the Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) initiative. Key Indian defence companies including Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), L&T, Mahindra Defence, and MEIL have contributed to this warship’s development.
Additionally, more than 55 Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) were engaged in the project. This collaboration not only supports the Indian defence ecosystem but also boosts employment and economic activity across various sectors.
INS Arnala commissioned into Indian Navy as Garden Reach Shipbuilders collaborate with L&T shipbuilders to to build country's first shallow warfare ship@mollygambhir brings you this report by @sdhrthmp pic.twitter.com/pTttaEYTaD
— WION (@WIONews) June 18, 2025
Cutting-Edge Capabilities of INS Arnala Ship
The INS Arnala ship is purpose-built for anti-submarine warfare (ASW) in shallow coastal waters. Here’s what sets it apart:
- Subsurface Surveillance: Equipped with advanced sonar and underwater acoustic systems, the ship can detect even miniature submarines and Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (UUVs) in depths less than 30 metres.
- Mine-Laying Operations: With superior mine-laying capabilities, the ship adds an additional layer of deterrence in coastal regions.
- Low-Intensity Maritime Operations: Its design supports missions such as coastal patrolling, search and rescue, and humanitarian assistance.
Unique Design Features
Unlike traditional warships that have dual rocket launchers, INS Arnala features a single centreline rocket launcher. This innovation:
- Reduces the need for additional sensor-to-weapon systems.
- Lowers overall operational costs.
- Maintains full effectiveness with a more compact and efficient weapon system layout.
Its improved ergonomic design also ensures easier and more efficient operations, making it ideal for coastal missions.
Strengthening India’s Coastal Defence
The ASW-SWC ships like INS Arnala are not just another addition to the fleet — they are a strategic enhancement to India’s maritime posture. With integrated Combat Management Systems (CMS) and Integrated ASW Complex (IAC), these vessels are fitted with:
- Hull-Mounted Sonar Abhay
- Underwater Acoustic Communication System (UWACS)
- Low-Frequency Variable Depth Sonar (LFVDS)
- Lightweight torpedoes
- ASW rockets and decoys
These features ensure the INS Arnala ship can detect and neutralize underwater threats, particularly in shallow coastal waters where larger warships may struggle to operate effectively.
What’s Next?
INS Arnala is the first of 16 ships in the ASW-SWC class. These ships will serve a crucial role in protecting India’s 7,500 km long coastline, offshore assets, and trade routes. As threats in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) evolve, these ships provide a strong deterrent and operational advantage for India’s maritime forces.
The Navy’s plan to deploy these ships for surveillance, patrol, and rescue missions along the coastline ensures round-the-clock coastal defence, making India’s maritime borders more secure than ever.
FAQs about INS Arnala Ship
Q1: What is the primary function of INS Arnala?
A: INS Arnala is designed for anti-submarine warfare in shallow waters. It can detect, track, and neutralize underwater threats, including miniature submarines and UUVs.
Q2: How is INS Arnala different from older Indian Navy warships?
A: Unlike older ships like the Abhay-class, INS Arnala features a centreline rocket launcher, advanced sonar systems, and is ergonomically designed for modern naval operations in shallow waters.
Q3: Who built INS Arnala?
A: INS Arnala was built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE) in partnership with L&T Shipbuilders under a Public-Private Partnership model.
Q4: What is the significance of the name “Arnala”?
A: The ship is named after the historic Arnala Fort near Vasai, Maharashtra, symbolizing India’s rich maritime heritage.
Q5: How does INS Arnala support Make in India?
A: The ship has 80% indigenous content and involves over 55 MSMEs, showcasing India’s capability in designing and building advanced warships domestically.