ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel India (AM/NS India) has supplied 100% of the specialised steel required for INS Malvan, the Indian Navy’s latest indigenously built Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Watercraft (ASW-SWC), underscoring the growing role of domestic steelmakers in India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem.
The vessel was commissioned into the Indian Navy on July 22, 2026, at Karwar, Karnataka.
Specialised steel for naval programme
The specialised naval-grade steel was manufactured at AM/NS India’s integrated steelmaking facility at Hazira in Gujarat. The company said the milestone highlights the capabilities of advanced Indian steelmaking in supporting strategically important defence programmes while contributing to the country’s maritime security and self-reliance objectives.
Supporting defence self-reliance
AM/NS India, Director & Vice President, Sales & Marketing, Ranjan Dhar said the commissioning of INS Malvan demonstrates how advanced manufacturing capabilities in India are strengthening the country’s defence preparedness.
“Producing specialised naval-grade steel demands stringent quality standards, advanced metallurgical expertise and close collaboration with our customers. We are proud that AM/NS India steel is contributing to the next generation of Indian Navy vessels while supporting India’s ambition to strengthen domestic defence manufacturing,” he said.
Part of Mahe-class fleet
Built by Cochin Shipyard Ltd, INS Malvan is the second of eight Mahe-class Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Watercraft and the second vessel of the class to be inducted into the Indian Navy.
The programme has over 80% indigenous content and aligns with the Government of India’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Viksit Bharat initiatives by showcasing the country’s capabilities in naval design, engineering, systems integration and defence shipbuilding.
Designed for underwater surveillance, anti-submarine warfare, mine warfare and coastal security operations, the vessel is expected to strengthen the Indian Navy’s ability to safeguard India’s maritime interests, particularly in coastal waters.
Steel for entire fleet
AM/NS India said it is supplying all the specialised steel required for the fleet of eight ASW-SWCs being built for the Indian Navy.
The company has also supplied specialised steel for other frontline naval platforms, including INS Visakhapatnam and INS Surat, further strengthening its presence in India’s defence sector.
Contribution to strategic projects
Beyond defence, AM/NS India has supplied specialised steel for several landmark infrastructure projects, including the Chenab Railway Bridge, Anji Khad Railway Bridge, Bogibeel Bridge and the India-based Neutrino Observatory.
According to the company, these projects reflect the growing role of advanced Indian steelmaking in supporting national security, strategic infrastructure development and the country’s self-reliance agenda.