MALPE AND MULKI (Syllabus: GS Paper 3 – Sci and Tech)

Context: The Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) launched two anti-submarine warfare shallow water crafts which were manufactured here for the Indian Navy.

Malpe and Mulki

• About: It is the fourth and fifth ships of the 8 Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft project.
• Developed by: Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL).
• Part of: India's 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' initiative, with over 80% indigenous content. 

oThe ships are also a part of the Mahe-class.

• Features:
• India's growing self-reliance in defense production and is expected to enhance both domestic manufacturing and employment.
• Advanced Underwater Sensors: The newly launched ships, Malpe and Mulki, are equipped with locally developed underwater sensors to detect enemy submarines and underwater threats.
• Operations: The vessels are capable of conducting anti-submarine warfare in shallow waters, low-intensity maritime operations, and mine-laying activities.
• Size and Displacement: The ships measure 78 meters in length and displace around 900 tons.
• Speed: They can achieve speeds of up to 25 knots and have an endurance of 1,800 nautical miles, allowing efficient coverage of vast coastal areas.