Indian Navy Received Arnala, the First of Eight Anti-submarine Warfare Shallow Water Boats
‘Arnala’, the first of the eight ASW SWCs (Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft), indigenously designed and built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata, was delivered to the Indian Navy on 8 May. The warship has been designed and constructed as per the Classification Rules of the Indian Register of Shipping (IRS) under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) of GRSE with M/s L&T Shipyard, thus demonstrating the success of collaborative defence manufacturing. Arnala’s delivery is yet another milestone in the Indian Navy’s quest for indigenous shipbuilding and upholding the Government’s vision of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ (Make in India) with over 80% indigenous content. Arnala is named after the historic fort ‘Arnala’ located off Vasai, Maharashtra, which the Indian Navy described as “a reflection of India’s rich maritime heritage.”
The 77-metre-long warship is powered by a diesel powerplant and uses a waterjet propulsion system. It is specially designed for underwater surveillance, search and rescue operations, and Low Intensity Maritime Operations (LIMO). The ship can reach speeds up to 25 knots and can cover a distance of 1,800 nautical miles before refueling. The vessel’s primary anti-submarine weapon is a forward mounted RBU-6000 anti-submarine rocket launcher along with half a dozen Shyena light torpedoes. Arnala also has a 30mm cannon and two 12.7mm stabilised remote-controlled guns with an optical targeting system. The ASW SWC’s design allows for up to 57 crew members, which supports the efficient running of all important systems. It is equipped with a high level of automation, which reduces manpower requirements and enhances operational efficiency. The ship can undertake ASW tasks in shallow waters and can also lay sea mines.
Anarla was launched on 20 December, 2022, and entered service on 8 May 2025. A total of 16 anti-submarine warfare shallow water craft are planned across two classes. The induction of these ASW SWC will help the Indian Navy spot and fight underwater threats closer to the coast, improving India’s security in littoral rejoins.