छत्रपती शिवाजी महाराजांचे आरमार (नौदल)

During Shivaji Maharaj’s reign, the Maratha Navy included approximately 640 small and medium vessels and nearly 30 large Gurab warships. Smaller ships ensured speed and flexibility in shallow waters.

Gurabs weighed between 200–300 tons and carried long-range cannons. Galbats, though similar in structure, were lighter (70–80 tons) and faster.

Other ship types included Shivad, Tarande, Pal, Machwa, Jug, Virkati, Dabari, and Mahagiri, each designed for specific naval operations.

Shipyards at Sindhudurg, Ratnagiri, and coastal Konkan enabled continuous shipbuilding and maintenance. European shipbuilding technology was selectively studied but adapted to Indian coastal needs.

Two landmark naval events were the Basrur Sea Campaign (1665) and the Battle of Khanderi (1679). The capture and fortification of Khanderi Island, located just eleven miles from Mumbai, directly challenged British naval dominance.

The Maratha Navy consisted of officers from all communities, reflecting Shivaji Maharaj’s inclusive governance and administrative foresight.