INS Arnala: 10 Key Facts About India’s First Indigenous Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft

India is set to commission INS Arnala, the first of 16 Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Crafts (ASW-SWCs), on June 18, 2025, at the Naval Dockyard in Visakhapatnam. This marks a significant milestone in bolstering the nation's coastal defense capabilities.

Indian Navy personnel and officials of Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata, during the handover ceremony of 'Arnala' on May, 8, 2025. (Photo: PTI/File) | Firstpost

1. First of Its Class

INS Arnala is the lead ship in the Arnala-class ASW-SWCs, designed to replace the aging Abhay-class corvettes. These vessels are tailored for anti-submarine operations in coastal waters, low-intensity maritime operations (LIMO), and mine-laying tasks.

2. Indigenous Design and Construction

The vessel was indigenously designed by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata, and constructed at L&T Shipyard, Kattupalli, under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. This collaboration underscores India's commitment to self-reliance in defense manufacturing.

3. High Indigenous Content

INS Arnala boasts nearly 88% indigenous content, reflecting the 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' initiative. This high level of local sourcing enhances India's defense industrial base and reduces dependency on foreign suppliers.

4. Advanced Anti-Submarine Capabilities

Equipped with sophisticated sonar systems, including hull-mounted sonar and low-frequency variable depth sonar, INS Arnala can detect and engage enemy submarines effectively. Its armament includes lightweight torpedoes, ASW rockets, and mine-laying capabilities.

5. Stealth Features

The vessel incorporates stealth characteristics such as a reduced radar cross-section, low acoustic signature, and low infrared signature, enhancing its survivability and effectiveness in littoral zones.

6. Compact Yet Powerful

Measuring 77.6 meters in length and displacing 900 tonnes, INS Arnala is smaller than previous ASW corvettes but packs a formidable punch. Its compact size allows for greater maneuverability in shallow waters.

7. Waterjet Propulsion System

INS Arnala is the largest Indian naval warship powered by a diesel engine-waterjet propulsion system. This setup provides enhanced agility and speed, crucial for operations in shallow coastal areas.

8. Crew Complement

The vessel accommodates a crew of 57 personnel, including seven officers, ensuring efficient operations and maintenance during missions.

9. Historical Significance of the Name

INS Arnala is named after the historic Arnala Fort located off the coast of Vasai, Maharashtra. The fort holds strategic maritime importance and symbolizes India's rich naval heritage.

10. Part of a Larger Fleet Modernization

The commissioning of INS Arnala is part of a broader initiative to enhance India's coastal defense. Under a contract signed in April 2019, GRSE is building eight ASW-SWCs, with another eight being constructed by Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL). The total project cost is estimated at ₹12,622 crore.

Conclusion 

INS Arnala's induction into the Indian Navy marks a significant step in strengthening the country's maritime security, particularly in shallow coastal regions where submarine threats are prevalent. Its advanced capabilities and indigenous construction reflect India's growing prowess in naval defense technology.

(Sources: Firstpost, Times of India, IndiaTV)