INS Mahe
Significance
INS Mahe is India’s first Mahe-class Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Watercraft (ASW-SWC).
Commissioned at Naval Dockyard by General Upendra Dwivedi, the Chief of the Army Staff first time an Army Chief presided over commissioning of a naval warship.
Over 80% indigenous components, demonstrating India’s progress toward Aatmanirbhar Bharat in defence shipbuilding.
Underwent rigorous trials for over two years before induction.
Motto: ‘Silent Hunters’ indicating stealth and high readiness.
Design and Construction
Designed and built by Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL).
It is the lead ship of eight vessels in the Mahe-class series.
Embodies India’s growing capacity to design, construct and field indigenous complex combatants.
Operational Role
Forms the first line of coastal defence.
Integrates with surface combatants, submarines, and naval aviation for persistent maritime domain awareness.
Enhances India’s capability to ensure near-sea dominance and strengthen littoral/coastal security grid.
Contributes to safeguarding India’s maritime interests across littoral regions.
Combat Capabilities
Compact but potent combat suite, integrating multiple systems.
Specialised for anti-submarine operations in coastal and shallow waters.
Equipped with advanced sensors, communication systems, and weapons for detecting, tracking, and neutralising sub-surface threats.
Capable of prolonged shallow-water operations with advanced machinery and control systems.
Prelims Practice MCQs
Q. Consider the following statements about INS Mahe:
It is the first Mahe-class Shallow Water Anti-Submarine Warfare Craft.
It was commissioned by the Chief of the Army Staff.
It has been built by Goa Shipyard Limited.
Its primary role is anti-submarine operations in deep-sea waters.
How many of the above statements are correct?
(a) Only one
(b) Only two
(c) Only three
(d) All four
Answer: (b)
Explanation:
• Statements 1 and 2 are correct.
• Statement 3 is incorrect — it was built by Cochin Shipyard Limited.
• Statement 4 is incorrect — it is designed for shallow/coastal waters, not deep sea.
Q. The Mahe-class vessels primarily strengthen which of the following aspects of India’s maritime security?
(a) Blue-water power projection across the Indo-Pacific
(b) Coastal and littoral anti-submarine warfare
(c) Long-range missile strike capability
(d) Naval air dominance in high seas
Answer: (b)
Explanation:
The class is designed for ASW in coastal/shallow waters, significantly enhancing littoral security.