Kolkata | July 16, 2025: The Indian Navy has achieved yet another significant milestone in its ongoing naval modernisation drive with the launch of ‘Ajay’, the eighth and final Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW SWC) at the Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) in Kolkata.
The ship, Yard 3034, is part of a series of ASW vessels that have been indigenously designed and constructed to meet the evolving maritime security needs of India, with an emphasis on underwater domain awareness, anti-submarine warfare, and mine-laying capabilities.
The launch ceremony was graced by the presence of Vice Admiral Kiran Deshmukh, Chief of Materiel (COM), underscoring the Navy’s continued commitment to strengthening its fleet with advanced, locally-built platforms.
The first vessel of the class, ‘Arnala’, was commissioned on 18th June 2025, while the second ship is scheduled for delivery in August 2025. The completion of all eight vessels marks a significant achievement in the Indian Navy’s vision to ensure coastal security and deep-water readiness.
This initiative is aligned with the Government of India’s ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ (Self-Reliant India) mission, promoting indigenous defence manufacturing and reducing reliance on foreign platforms.
The ASW SWC ships are designed to operate in shallow waters and are equipped with state-of-the-art sensors and weaponry suited for countering underwater threats, including enemy submarines and mines.
With ‘Ajay’ now launched, India moves a step closer to a more secure and technologically advanced naval force — proudly Made in India.
