India, July 30 -- 'Machilipatnam', the seventh of eight Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW SWC) being built by Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) for the Indian Navy, was launched on Wednesday. The ship is equipped for underwater surveillance, anti-submarine warfare (ASW) operations and Low Intensity Maritime Operations (LIMO), along with mine warfare capability. The ship will further bolster coastal defence and enhance maritime domain awareness, the defence ministry said. 'Machilipatnam' carries deep historical and cultural significance as it derives its name from the historic port city of Machilipatnam in Krishna district of Andhra Pradesh, known for its rich maritime legacy and flourishing trade along India's eastern seaboard, officials said.
The ship proudly embodies the spirit and legacy of Machilipatnam while reinforcing the Indian Navy's commitment to safeguarding the nation's maritime interests, they said. 'Machilipatnam' (BY 529), the ASW SWC of the Mahe-class, was launched in the presence of Vice Admiral Atul Anand, Additional Secretary of the Department of Military Affairs. The ceremony was attended by senior officials of the Indian Navy, Cochin Shipyard Limited and other distinguished guests. The launch of 'Machilipatnam' marks another milestone in the successful execution of the ASW SWC project and reaffirms India's commitment to Aatmanirbhar Bharat in defence manufacturing, it said. With indigenous content exceeding 80 per cent, the project showcases the growing capability of the Indian shipbuilding industry and will substantially enhance the Indian Navy's operational readiness for safeguarding the nation's maritime interests in the Indian Ocean Region, the ministry said.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.