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.