The Indian Navy marked another milestone in its indigenous shipbuilding programme with the launch of INS Machilipatnam (BY 529), the seventh of eight Mahe-class Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW SWC), at Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) today.
The vessel was launched by Ms Goolrukh Anand in the presence of Vice Admiral Atul Anand, Additional Secretary, Department of Military Affairs. The ceremony was attended by senior officials of the Indian Navy, Cochin Shipyard Limited, and other dignitaries.
Named after the historic port city of Machilipatnam in Andhra Pradesh’s Krishna district, the warship reflects India’s rich maritime heritage and the city’s longstanding role as a major trading hub on the eastern coast. The vessel symbolises the Indian Navy’s continued commitment to safeguarding the country’s maritime interests.
Designed for a wide range of coastal security missions, Machilipatnam is equipped with advanced underwater surveillance systems and is capable of conducting anti-submarine warfare operations, low-intensity maritime operations (LIMO), and mine warfare missions. The induction of the vessel is expected to significantly strengthen India’s coastal defence architecture and enhance maritime domain awareness.
The launch represents another major achievement in the execution of the ASW Shallow Water Craft programme and highlights the success of the Government’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative in defence manufacturing. With an indigenous content exceeding 80 per cent, the project demonstrates the growing capabilities of India’s domestic shipbuilding industry.
Once commissioned into the Indian Navy, Machilipatnam will further enhance the Navy’s operational readiness and contribute to securing India’s maritime interests across the Indian Ocean Region.
