Launch of 'Abhay'

  • 27 Oct 2024

In News:

Recently, ‘Abhay’, the seventh ship in the Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW SWC) series was launched.

Key Details:

Project Background

  • Contract Details: The Ministry of Defence (MoD) signed a contract with Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata, in April 2019 for the construction of eight ASW SWC ships.
  • Class of Ships: The Arnala-class ships are intended to replace the older Abhay-class ASW Corvettes currently in service with the Indian Navy.
  • Purpose: These ships are designed for anti-submarine warfare (ASW) operations in coastal waters and to conduct Low-Intensity Maritime Operations (LIMO) and mine-laying activities.

Design and Features of 'Abhay'

  • Dimensions:
    • Length: 77 meters
    • Width: 10 meters
  • Speed and Endurance:
    • Maximum speed: 25 knots
    • Endurance: 1800 nautical miles (NM).
  • Propulsion: Waterjet-propelled, offering agility and swift response in tactical situations.
  • Indigenous Content: Over 80% indigenous content, supporting India’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) initiative in defence manufacturing.

Capabilities of the ASW SWC

  • Anti-Submarine Warfare:
    • Designed to conduct subsurface surveillance and anti-submarine operations in coastal waters.
    • Equipped with advanced sonar systems, including Hull-Mounted Sonar and Low-Frequency Variable Depth Sonar for enhanced underwater surveillance.
  • Armament and Equipment:
    • Torpedoes and ASW rockets for anti-submarine operations.
    • Mines for mine-laying operations.
    • Close-in Weapon System (CIWS): 30 mm for close-range defence against aerial and surface threats.
    • 12.7 mm Stabilized Remote-Control Guns for additional defensive capability.

Strategic Importance

  • Coastal Defence: The ASW SWC ships enhance the Navy’s capability to defend India’s extensive coastline and exclusive economic zone (EEZ) against submarine threats.
  • Operational Role:
    • In addition to anti-submarine warfare, these ships can conduct Low-Intensity Maritime Operations (LIMO), which include operations against non-traditional threats.
    • Mine-laying capability to disrupt enemy naval operations.
  • Advanced Detection: These ships are equipped to track both surface and underwater targets, enabling them to coordinate operations with aircraft, strengthening maritime security.