Androth Anti-Submarine Warfare Ship

Syllabus: Defence & Security (UPSC Prelims)
Source: The Hindu

Why in News?

The Indian Navy has inducted ‘Androth’, the second Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC), built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata.

About Androth

• Type: Indigenously built Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft.
• Series: Part of an 8-ship series being inducted into the Indian Navy.

Purpose & Deployment

• Role: Coastal security, anti-submarine patrols, and shallow-water operations.
• Deployment Areas: India’s maritime zones, especially the Lakshadweep archipelago and other strategic sea lanes.
• Aim:
  • Strengthen anti-submarine warfare capabilities.
  • Enhance coastal surveillance and safeguard maritime borders.
  • Support Aatmanirbhar Bharat by promoting indigenous defence production.

Developed By

• Shipyard: Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata — one of India’s premier defence shipyards.

Key Features

• Size & Propulsion: ~77 metres; among the largest Indian naval warships with diesel engine–waterjet propulsion.
• Weapon Systems:
  • Indigenous lightweight torpedoes
  • Anti-submarine warfare rockets
• Indigenous Content: Over 80% made in India, reducing import dependence.
• Maneuverability: Designed for littoral waters and shallow coastal regions.
• Surveillance: Equipped with advanced sonar and sensors for submarine detection.