Launch of the 7th Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW SWC)—Abhay
Context:
The Ministry of Defence recently launched the 7th Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW SWC) named Abhay.
- Built with over 80% indigenous content, this vessel marks a significant step towards enhancing India’s defence manufacturing capabilities.
- The Abhay was developed under a contract with Kolkata’s Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE) to construct eight ASW SWCs, specifically for coastal and shallow-water anti-submarine missions. This aligns with India’s vision for a robust and self-sufficient maritime defence.
Key Highlights:
- Enhanced Capabilities: Equipped with search attack unit (SAU) technology, Abhay is designed for coordinated anti-submarine warfare (ASW) with aerial support, and it is capable of detecting and engaging sub-surface targets in shallow waters.
- Mission Flexibility: These vessels can be deployed in low-intensity maritime operations (LIMO), mine-laying, and coastal defence, enhancing India’s operational reach and maritime security.
- Advanced Sonar Systems: The vessel includes a low-frequency variable depth sonar, hull-mounted sonar, and an expendable bathythermograph, which is used to detect temperature changes at various water depths.
- Indigenous Weaponry: Armed with lightweight torpedoes and propelled by water jets, Abhay is designed to neutralise underwater threats effectively.
- Arnala-Class Initiative: The Arnala-class ASW crafts will replace the older Abhay-class corvettes, providing a strategic upgrade to India’s coastal defence fleet.
- The launch of Abhay showcases India’s advancing defence technology and commitment to reducing dependency on foreign defence equipment.
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