Introduction of INS Malpe and Mulki

- The Indian Navy has introduced the fourth and fifth Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) Shallow Water Craft (SWC) ships called Malpe and Mulki. 

- Cochin Shipyard Ltd constructed these two latest additions to the class of Mahe, alongside INS Mahe, INS Malvan, and INS Mangrol that were inaugurated in 2023.

- Named after unquestionably significant ports along India's coastline, the inclusion of these vessels marks a vital milestone in strengthening the nation's naval prowess.

 

Key Features of ASW SWC Ships

- The ASW SWC vessels come equipped with state-of-the-art, indigenously developed underwater sensors, upgrading India's defence technological capabilities.

- These vessels are designed to undertake anti-submarine operations in coastal areas, Low Intensity Maritime Operations, and Mine Laying Operations.

- With a maximum speed of 25 knots, these technologically advanced ships promise an endurance of up to 1800 nautical miles.

 

Background and Emergence of Defense Indigenization in India

- The dependency on the Soviet Union for defence equipment triggered India’s pivot towards self-defence industrialization from the mid-1980s.

- The government initiated Research and Development funding for DRDO to embark on high-profile projects marking the beginning of defence indigenization in 1983.

- The government sanctioned the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP) which facilitated the development of diverse missile systems like Prithvi, Akash, Trishul, Nag, and Agni Ballistic missiles.

 

Indigenous Efforts and Collaborations 

- The Self Reliance Review Committee (SRRV) under the guidance of Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam had formulated a 10-year self-reliance plan intending to enhance the self-reliance index (SRI) from 30% in 1992-1993 to 70 % by 2005, but this target still remains unachieved.

- A shift in focus was observed towards co-development and co-production partnerships with foreign companies to meet the requirements of the armed forces due to insufficient indigenous efforts

- A significant step towards collaboration was taken in 1998 when India and Russia agreed to jointly produce Brahmos supersonic cruise missile.

- Other international collaborations for various projects include countries like Israel and France.

In conclusion, the introduction of INS Malpe and Mulki ASW SWC ships not only boosts the Indian Navy's operational capacity but also highlights the nation's commitment towards enhancing self-reliance in the defence sector.