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Anjadip: A Game Changer for India's Maritime Security

Enhancing Coastal Defense with Indigenous Innovation

Anjadip: A Game Changer for India's Maritime Security

  • 23 Dec, 2025
  • 378

Introduction to Anjadip

The Indian Navy received a significant boost to its maritime security and indigenous defense manufacturing with the delivery of ‘Anjadip’ on December 22, 2025. This vessel is an Anti Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW SWC) and marks a pivotal milestone in the Navy's journey towards self-reliance in warship construction and enhanced coastal defense preparedness.

Overview of the ASW Shallow Water Craft Project

The ASW Shallow Water Craft program is a key initiative aimed at strengthening India’s ability to detect, track, and neutralize submarine threats in coastal and shallow waters. Given their vulnerability to submarine intrusions and asymmetric threats, these regions require robust defense mechanisms.

‘Anjadip’ is the third vessel in a series of eight ASW SWCs being constructed for the Indian Navy under this program, highlighting the Navy's commitment to enhance its operational readiness.

Indigenous Design and Construction

This warship has been indigenously designed and constructed by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) in Kolkata, in collaboration with L&T Shipyard located in Kattupalli, Tamil Nadu. The project exemplifies a Public Private Partnership (PPP) model, showcasing successful collaboration between public sector defense shipyards and private industry. The ships are built according to the classification rules of the Indian Register of Shipping (IRS).

Key Technical Features of Anjadip

‘Anjadip’ stands among the most advanced shallow water combat vessels in the Indian Navy's inventory. Key features include:

  • Approximately 77 meters long
  • The largest Indian naval warship propelled by waterjets
  • Equipped with state-of-the-art lightweight torpedoes
  • Houses indigenously developed anti-submarine rockets
  • Features advanced shallow water sonar systems

These capabilities enable the ship to effectively detect, track, and engage underwater threats in challenging shallow-water environments, significantly enhancing operational effectiveness.

Operational Role and Capabilities

The induction of ‘Anjadip’ will greatly improve the Navy’s anti-submarine warfare capabilities, including:

  • Coastal and near-shore surveillance
  • Mine-laying operations
  • Protection of ports, harbors, and offshore assets

Such vessels are essential for safeguarding India’s extensive coastline and ensuring maritime domain awareness in close proximity to the shore.

Legacy Behind the Name Anjadip

The new vessel carries forward the legacy of the former INS Anjadip, a Petya class corvette decommissioned in 2003. Named after Anjadip Island, located off the coast of Karwar in Karnataka, this region holds strategic naval importance. The naming symbolizes continuity, tradition, and India’s enduring commitment to maritime security.

Key Takeaways

  • ‘Anjadip’ is the third ASW Shallow Water Craft delivered to the Indian Navy.
  • Constructed by GRSE in partnership with L&T Shipyard under the PPP model.
  • Equipped with advanced sonar, torpedoes, and anti-submarine rockets.
  • Features over 80% indigenous content.
  • Enhances anti-submarine, coastal surveillance, and mine-laying capabilities.
  • Supports India’s vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat in defense.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the significance of the Anjadip vessel?
Answer: Anjadip enhances the Indian Navy's capabilities in anti-submarine warfare, coastal surveillance, and mine-laying operations, marking a significant step towards self-reliance in defense.

Q2. Who constructed the Anjadip warship?
Answer: The Anjadip warship was constructed by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) in collaboration with L&T Shipyard under a Public Private Partnership model.

Q3. What are the key features of the Anjadip vessel?
Answer: Key features include advanced sonar systems, lightweight torpedoes, and anti-submarine rockets, making it one of the most advanced shallow water combat vessels in the Indian Navy.

Q4. What does Aatmanirbhar Bharat mean in the context of defense?
Answer: Aatmanirbhar Bharat signifies India's commitment to self-reliance in defense production, emphasizing indigenous manufacturing and reducing dependence on foreign imports.

Q5. Why is the name Anjadip significant?
Answer: The name Anjadip symbolizes tradition and continuity, honoring the legacy of a former INS Anjadip and reflecting India's strategic naval interests in the region.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What is the primary role of the ASW Shallow Water Craft like Anjadip?
A) Amphibious operations
B) Anti-submarine warfare
C) Aircraft carrier operations
D) Naval logistics
Correct Answer: B

Question 2: Which organization partnered with GRSE to build Anjadip?
A) Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited
B) L&T Shipyard
C) Hindustan Aeronautics Limited
D) Cochin Shipyard
Correct Answer: B

Question 3: What is the length of the Anjadip vessel?
A) 60 meters
B) 70 meters
C) 77 meters
D) 85 meters
Correct Answer: C

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