BY 528 (Magdala), the sixth vessel in a series of eight Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Crafts (ASW SWC), was ceremonially launched on October 18 at Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL), Kochi, marking a major milestone in India’s indigenous naval shipbuilding program.
The launch was conducted in accordance with longstanding maritime tradition by Mrs. Renu Rajaram, in the presence of Vice Admiral Rajaram Swaminathan, Controller of Warship Production and Acquisition (CWP&A), alongside senior officials from the Indian Navy and CSL.
Designed and built indigenously by CSL, Magdala is part of a strategic initiative to bolster the Navy’s underwater domain awareness and enhance its Anti-Submarine Warfare and Mine Laying capabilities. The vessel is propelled by three diesel engine-powered waterjets and features advanced sensors including a Hull Mounted Sonar and Low Frequency Variable Depth Sonar (LFVDS).
Its combat suite includes state-of-the-art torpedoes, Anti-Submarine Rockets, an NSG-30 Gun, and a 12.7 mm Stabilized Remote Control Gun (SRCG), enabling it to perform critical roles in coastal defense and shallow water operations.
The launch of Magdala underscores the Indian Navy’s commitment to self-reliance in warship production, weapons systems, sensors, and advanced communication and electronic warfare technologies. With an indigenous content exceeding 80%, the vessel represents a significant leap in India’s maritime capabilities and its strategic posture in the Indian Ocean Region.
Delivery of the first ship in the ASW SWC series is scheduled for the end of October 2025.
