INS Ajay: Final ASW Shallow Water Craft Launched in Kolkata
The Indian Navy marked a major milestone in indigenous shipbuilding on July 21, 2025, with the launch of INS Ajay (Yard 3034), the eighth and final vessel in the Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW SWC) series. The ship was launched at Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata, in the presence of Vice Admiral Kiran Deshmukh, Chief of Materiel.
A Ceremony Honouring Naval Tradition
As per naval tradition, Mrs. Priya Deshmukh performed the ceremonial launch of the vessel. The event witnessed participation from senior Indian Navy officials and GRSE representatives, highlighting the strategic importance of this indigenously built warship.
Augmenting Naval Strength in Shallow Waters
The INS Ajay is equipped with advanced anti-submarine warfare sensors and weapons including a Hull Mounted Sonar, Low Frequency Variable Depth Sonar (LFVDS), state-of-the-art Torpedoes, Anti-Submarine Rockets, a 30mm NSG Gun, and 12.7mm SRCG. It is powered by diesel engines and waterjets, designed for agile operations in shallow waters.
Part of a Larger Strategic Fleet
The first ship of the class, INS Arnala, was commissioned on June 18, 2025. The second vessel is expected to be delivered by August 2025. With the addition of INS Ajay, the fleet enhances India’s underwater domain awareness, mine-laying, and anti-submarine capabilities in the Indian Ocean Region.
Aatmanirbhar Push with 80% Indigenous Content
With over 80% indigenous content, the launch of INS Ajay is a significant endorsement of the Make in India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiatives. The project exemplifies India’s strides in achieving self-reliance in naval shipbuilding, sensors, and electronic warfare systems.
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