'Agray' and 'Akshay' vessels launched to enhance Indian Navy's anti-submarine capabilities
- In Reports
- 04:14 PM, Mar 15, 2024
- Myind Staff
Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) Ltd launched two ASWSWC warships for the Indian Navy. Air Chief Marshal Vivek Ram Chaudhari attended the event as the chief guest. Also present were Army Commander-Eastern Command Lt Gen R. C. Tiwari, CMDE P R Hari, Chairman and Managing Director of GRSE RK Dash, among others.
The ships were launched by Neeta Chaudhari, President of the Air Force Families Welfare Association (IFFWA) and wife of Indian Air Force Air Chief Marshal Vivek Ram Chaudhari.
Following the ceremonial launch of both ships and the traditional breaking of coconuts, Chaudhari bestowed upon them the names "INS Agray" and "INS Akshay". According to sources familiar with the matter, these ships represent reincarnations of the Abhay-class warships previously operated by the Indian Navy. The original INS Agray was decommissioned in 2017, while INS Akshay followed suit in 2022.
GRSE revealed that these two vessels represent the 5th and 6th in a series of 8 Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Crafts (ASW SWCs) currently under construction. The significance of the twin launches is underscored by the fact that they occurred within four months of the launch of the 4th warship of this class, according to a statement from the Ministry of Defence. This underscores GRSE's dedication to delivering warships to the maritime forces well within the designated schedule.
According to sources familiar with the matter, the main function of an ASW SWC is to carry out anti-submarine operations in coastal waters, Low Intensity Maritime Operations (LIMO), and mine-laying operations. These highly capable warships, measuring 77.6 meters in length and 10.5 meters in width, are also equipped for comprehensive sub-surface surveillance of coastal waters and can engage in coordinated anti-submarine operations with aircraft and other surface platforms.
The ASW SWCs are small waterjet-propelled vessels with a maximum speed capability of 25 Knots. These ships are equipped with a formidable anti-submarine arsenal, including lightweight torpedoes, ASW rockets, and mines. Additionally, they are armed with a 30 mm Close-in Weapon System and 12.7 mm Stabilised Remote-Control Guns. The platforms are outfitted with a Hull Mounted Sonar and a Low-Frequency Variable Depth Sonar.
Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari commended GRSE for its efforts in meeting the requirements of the nation’s maritime forces.
"Today's launch of two more ships marks another milestone for both GRSE and the Indian Navy, as it adds to the four already launched out of the eight Arnala class of ships. These eight Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Watercrafts will replace the in-service Abhay class, equipped with state-of-the-art sensors, sonars, torpedoes, and rocket launchers, significantly enhancing the Indian Navy's capabilities," he stated.
"I am confident that GRSE will continue to play a pivotal role in achieving self-reliance in the defence sector," he stated. "Our quest for innovation and skilled workforce fosters a stronger and self-sufficient India."
CMDE Hari emphasized GRSE’s commitment to designing and building advanced warships, saying, "We are fully geared up to meet Navy & Coast Guard expectations, with world-class infrastructure and focused efforts for new technology adaptation."
Image source: Economic Times
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