MANGROL, the Indian Navy’s third anti-submarine warfare shallow water craft (ASW-SWC), was commissioned here on Monday, a step expected to strengthen the force’s anti-submarine warfare capabilities, particularly in coastal waters where larger warships face operational limitations. Built by Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) in Kochi, the ship can operate alongside maritime patrol aircraft, helicopters and other warships to detect and counter submarine threats.

 

Its induction will enhance the Navy’s ability to protect ports, harbours and coastal approaches while supporting wider fleet operations. Vice Admiral Sanjay Vatsayan,Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Naval Command, who presided over the event, said the commissioning of INS Mangrol assumes particular significance against the backdrop of rising geopolitical tensions and an increasingly contested maritime environment.