India has commissioned INS Malvan, the second vessel in the indigenously designed Mahe‑class Anti‑Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW‑SWC) series — a major step in strengthening the country’s coastal security amid rising Chinese and Pakistani submarine activity in the Indian Ocean. Built by Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) with over 80% indigenous content, INS Malvan reflects India’s accelerating push for naval modernisation and self‑reliance in defence manufacturing.
Commissioned at the Karwar Naval Base in Karnataka, INS Malvan is notable for being the first Indian naval warship ever inducted at Karwar, marking a milestone for the base’s growing strategic importance. The ceremony was presided over by Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, Chief of the Air Staff, alongside Vice Admiral Sanjay Vatsayan, Flag Officer Commanding‑in‑Chief of the Western Naval Command, and other senior officials.
INS Malvan is equipped with advanced sonar systems, water‑jet propulsion, and specialised sensors designed for shallow‑water anti‑submarine operations — a critical capability as hostile submarines increasingly operate close to India’s coastline. The vessel enhances India’s ability to detect, track, and neutralise underwater threats in congested littoral zones where larger warships are less effective.
This commissioning marks the seventh warship inducted into the Indian Navy in 2026, underscoring the pace of India’s maritime expansion. The Mahe‑class fleet will eventually include eight vessels, forming a dedicated shallow‑water ASW force to protect key naval bases, shipping routes, and coastal infrastructure.
INS Malvan’s induction comes at a time when India is nearing one of its biggest military overhauls, with a focus on indigenous shipbuilding, modern sensors, and enhanced interoperability across naval platforms.