INS Agray

Why in News?

The Indian Navy has received INS Agray, the fourth (ASW SWC), indigenously designed and built by GRSE, Kolkata.

• Classification – It is an Anti‑Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW SWC).
• It is the 4^th ship in the 08 x Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW SWC) Arnala-class.
• Objectives - This vessel is specially designed for:
  • Anti-submarine warfare
  • Coastal surveillance
  • Mine detection and neutralization
• It will mainly operate in shallow coastal waters, where large warships face difficulty.
• Historical Legacy – Named after the erstwhile INS Agray (1241 PE Class Patrol Vessel), decommissioned in 2017.
• Design & Construction – Designed and constructed by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata.
• Built in accordance with Indian Register of Shipping (IRS) classification rules.
• Over 80% indigenous content, involving MSMEs and domestic industry.
• Key Features

1. Waterjet Propulsion System - Unlike traditional ships, it uses waterjet propulsion.
   • Benefits
     • Better manoeuvrability
     • Lower noise levels (important for stealth operations)

2. Low Acoustic Signature - The vessel produces less noise, making it harder for submarines to detect. This is crucial for successful anti-submarine missions.

• Powerful Anti-Submarine Warfare Capabilities
• INS Agray is specially built to detect and neutralize underwater threats.
• It is equipped with:
  • Advanced SONAR systems (Sound Navigation and Ranging)
  • Indigenous rocket launchers
  • Lightweight torpedoes
• These systems help in
  • Detecting enemy submarines
  • Tracking underwater movement
  • Launching precise attacks
  • Designed for Complex Coastal Environments
• Operational Roles
  • Anti‑Submarine Warfare (ASW) - Detection and engagement of submarines in shallow waters.
  • Mine Warfare - Capable of mine detection and neutralisation.
  • Coastal Defence - Surveillance and protection of littoral zones.
  • Fleet Support - Escort and protection in near‑shore operations.
• Strategic Significance –
  • Strengthens maritime security in the Indian Ocean Region.
  • Reflects India’s self‑reliance in warship design and construction.
  • Supports employment generation and expansion of the domestic defence ecosystem.

Reference

PIB | INS Agray