The Indian Navy is set to commission its second state-of-the-art Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC), Androth, at the Naval Dockyard in Visakhapatnam on October 6. The ceremony will be presided over by Vice Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Naval Command. This induction marks the formal entry of the second of sixteen ASW-SWC ships into the Navy’s fleet.
Built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) Ltd., Kolkata, with over 80% indigenous components, Androth exemplifies the Government of India’s vision of Aatmanirbharta and India’s growing maritime self-reliance. The vessel was constructed under the guidance of the Directorate of Ship Production and overseen by the Warship Overseeing Team, Kolkata, and was handed over to the Indian Navy on September 13, 2025.
The ship’s name, Androth, is inspired by Androth Island in the Lakshadweep archipelago, reflecting India’s commitment to safeguarding its vast maritime territories. The new Androth continues the legacy of its predecessor, INS Androth (P69), which served the nation with distinction for over 27 years before decommissioning.
Equipped with advanced weapons and sensor suites, modern communication systems, and waterjet propulsion, Androth is designed to detect, track, and neutralize underwater threats with precision. In addition to anti-submarine warfare, the vessel is capable of maritime surveillance, Search and Rescue operations, and coastal defence missions, making it a versatile asset in the Navy’s operational spectrum.
The commissioning of Androth strengthens India’s maritime security architecture, enhancing the Navy’s anti-submarine capabilities and reinforcing the nation’s resolve to design, develop, and build world-class warships indigenously.
