Welcome to GKboard.in, your trusted platform for current affairs updates tailored for competitive exams. Today, we dive into the recent delivery of INS Arnala, an Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft, to the Indian Navy by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE). This milestone strengthens India’s coastal defence and is a key topic for aspirants preparing for exams like UPSC, SSC, Banking, and other government recruitment tests.
Delivery of INS Arnala
Enhancing Naval Capabilities
GRSE has delivered INS Arnala, an Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) Shallow Water Craft, to the Indian Navy. This vessel enhances the Navy’s ability to counter submarine threats in coastal waters. The delivery is part of a 2019 contract to build eight ASW crafts, marking a significant step in modernizing India’s maritime security.
INS Arnala: Key Features
Design and Functionality
INS Arnala measures 77.6 metres in length and 10.5 metres in width. It is designed for full-scale sub-surface surveillance and anti-submarine operations. The craft can coordinate with aircraft to enhance maritime security. Built under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model with L&T Kattupalli in Tamil Nadu, it showcases collaborative defence production.
Strategic Importance
Historical and Defence Significance
Named after the historic Arnala island, linked to Maratha king Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, INS Arnala symbolizes India’s commitment to maritime security. These ASW crafts will replace the older Abhay class ships, significantly boosting India’s coastal defence capabilities against potential threats.
Technical Specifications
Performance and Endurance
The ASW shallow water crafts have a displacement of 900 tons and a maximum speed of 25 knots. With an operational endurance of 1,800 nautical miles, they are well-equipped for patrolling and surveillance in littoral waters, ensuring robust maritime security.
Indigenous Content
Boosting Self-Reliance
Over 80% of INS Arnala’s content is indigenous, reflecting India’s focus on self-reliance in defence production. This emphasis on local manufacturing creates job opportunities and develops technical expertise, strengthening the defence ecosystem within the country.
Future Developments
Expanding Naval Capabilities
GRSE is currently building 16 more warships, including advanced stealth frigates and offshore patrol vessels. These projects highlight India’s growing naval capabilities and commitment to modernizing its maritime forces to address evolving security challenges.
Why This Matters for Competitive Exams
Key Takeaways for Students
The delivery of INS Arnala is a significant topic for competitive exam aspirants, as questions on defence, maritime security, and indigenous manufacturing are common in exams like UPSC, SSC, and Banking. Focus on the ASW crafts’ specifications, their strategic importance, and India’s push for self-reliance in defence.
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Posted on: May 9, 2025