Indian Navy launches Malpe and Mulki: new Anti-Submarine Warfare ships from Cochin Shipyard.

According to information published by the Indian government on September 11, 2024, the Indian Navy advanced its coastal defense efforts with the simultaneous launch of two anti-submarine warfare shallow water craft (ASW SWC), Malpe and Mulki, at Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) in Kochi.
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Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft INS Malki and INS Malpe. (Picture source: Indian government)

The Malpe and Mulki are part of the Mahe-class ASW SWC fleet, designed for operations in coastal waters. Named after strategically important Indian ports, these vessels carry forward the legacy of their minesweeper predecessors. The Mahe-class ships are equipped with advanced indigenous underwater sensors and are capable of performing anti-submarine warfare, mine-laying, and low-intensity maritime operations.

About the ships

The Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC) is designed for operations in coastal areas, featuring a displacement of 700 tons. With an overall length of 78 meters and a beam measuring 11.26 meters, this vessel utilizes advanced water-jet propulsion, allowing it to reach speeds of up to 25 knots. The craft has a range of 1,800 nautical miles when cruising at 14 knots, making it well-suited for extended patrols. The ship operates with a complement of 57 personnel, including 7 officers.

In terms of sensors and processing capabilities, the ASW-SWC is equipped with a DRDO-developed ASW Combat Suite. Its sonar systems include the DRDO Abhay Hull-Mounted Sonar and a Low Frequency Variable Depth Sonar (LFVDS), providing a robust underwater detection capability. The vessel’s management systems consist of a Fire Control System (FCS), Integrated Platform Management System (IPMS), Automatic Power Management System (APMS), and a Battle Damage Control System (BDCS).

The ASW-SWC is armed with a range of anti-submarine warfare (ASW) systems, including the RBU-6000 anti-submarine rocket launcher, six lightweight ASW torpedoes, and anti-submarine mines deployed from mine-laying rails. Additionally, the ship features defensive armament such as one CRN-91 30mm naval gun and two 12.7 mm M2 stabilized remote-controlled guns for surface threats.