INS Arnala: India's Newest Anti-Submarine Warfare Ship Joins the Navy

The Indian Navy has officially commissioned INS Arnala, marking a significant advancement in its coastal defense and maritime capabilities. This new Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft, designed for various operations, reflects India's commitment to indigenous engineering and manufacturing. With a length of 77 meters and a gross tonnage of over 1490 tonnes, INS Arnala is set to bolster India's strategic presence in the Bay of Bengal and the Indo-Pacific region. The commissioning ceremony, attended by high-ranking officials, underscores the Navy's evolution into a builder's navy, enhancing national security and maritime readiness.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 18, 2025, 19:41 IST

A Milestone in Maritime Defense

New Delhi: The Indian Navy has taken a significant step forward in enhancing its coastal defense and maritime capabilities with the commissioning of INS Arnala, the inaugural Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft, into the Eastern Naval Command. This event took place at the Naval Dockyard in Visakhapatnam, attended by Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan.

INS Arnala is specifically designed for a variety of anti-submarine missions, including Sub-Surface Surveillance, Interdiction, Search and Rescue Operations, and Low-Intensity Maritime Operations (LIMO).

Measuring 77 meters in length and boasting a gross tonnage exceeding 1490 tonnes, this warship is notable for being the largest Indian naval vessel powered by a Diesel Engine-Waterjet system.

During his speech, General Chauhan emphasized the Indian Navy's evolution from being a 'buyer's navy' to a 'builder's navy', which he described as essential for the nation's aspirations in Blue Water operations.

The commissioning ceremony was presided over by Vice Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Eastern Naval Command, and was attended by senior naval officials, esteemed civilian guests, former Commanding Officers, and representatives from Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers and Larsen & Toubro Shipbuilding.

The warship is named after the historic Arnala Fort located off the coast of Vasai, Maharashtra, symbolizing India's rich maritime legacy.

"Similar to the fort that has withstood numerous threats, this ship is engineered to maintain a strong presence at sea. Its durable construction and sophisticated capabilities are designed to tackle challenges in the maritime environment, ensuring the protection of India's waters against emerging threats," stated a Navy spokesperson.

"With over 80 percent of its components sourced domestically, the warship integrates advanced technologies from prominent Indian defense companies, including Bharat Electronics Limited, L&T, Mahindra Defence, and MEIL," the spokesperson added.

The launch of INS Arnala not only strengthens India's defense capabilities but also showcases the success of indigenous design, engineering, and manufacturing.

In the last decade, the Indian Navy has experienced a remarkable transformation, with numerous ships and submarines currently under construction, including aircraft carriers, destroyers, and corvettes, positioning India as a maritime power with a global presence.

The Eastern Naval Command, where INS Arnala is stationed, plays a vital role in India's strategic initiatives in the Bay of Bengal and the Indo-Pacific region. This new addition will enhance India's coastal security and deterrence capabilities in shallow waters.