In a landmark event at the Naval Dockyard, Prime Minister Narendra Modi commissioned three frontline Indian Navy combatants INS Surat, INS Nilgiri, and INS Vaghsheer on Wednesday. This historic occasion marks a significant boost to India’s maritime defence capabilities and underscores the nation’s commitment to self-reliance in defence manufacturing.
Prime Minister Modi, in a post on X on Tuesday, emphasized the importance of the event, stating, “The commissioning of these three frontline naval combatants strengthens our resolve towards being a global leader in defence and enhances our self-reliance.”
A Historic Step for the Navy
The Indian Navy hailed the commissioning as a historic moment, with all three platforms being indigenously designed and constructed. The event showcases India’s growing expertise in warship and submarine manufacturing, reflecting the nation’s push towards becoming a major defence exporter.
INS Nilgiri: A Stealth Frigate of the Future
INS Nilgiri, the lead ship of the Project 17A stealth frigate class, represents a significant advancement over its predecessor, the Shivalik-class frigates. Designed by the Indian Navy’s Warship Design Bureau and built at Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), it boasts advanced survivability, seakeeping, and stealth features.
Key highlights of INS Nilgiri include:
- Advanced stealth technology for reduced radar signatures.
- State-of-the-art aviation facilities capable of operating multiple helicopter types, including the newly inducted MH-60R.
- Enhanced weaponry and sensor systems for multi-dimensional combat capabilities.
INS Surat: The Ultimate Stealth Destroyer
INS Surat, the fourth and final vessel of the Project 15B stealth destroyer class, is a critical addition to the Navy’s surface fleet. This destroyer is an evolution of the Kolkata class, incorporating several improvements in design and operational capabilities.
Notable features of INS Surat:
- Designed for superior combat performance with reduced radar cross-section.
- Equipped with advanced weapon systems and sensors for multi-role operations.
- Designed by the Warship Design Bureau and constructed at MDL, showcasing India’s indigenous shipbuilding prowess.
INS Vaghsheer: The Silent Underwater Predator
INS Vaghsheer, the sixth and final submarine under the Scorpene-class Project 75, is a state-of-the-art diesel-electric attack submarine. Known for its silent operation and modular construction, it is built for multiple roles, including anti-surface and anti-submarine warfare, intelligence gathering, and area surveillance.
Key features of INS Vaghsheer:
- Designed for future upgrades like air-independent propulsion (AIP) technology.
- Highly versatile with advanced stealth and weapon systems.
- Built by MDL in collaboration with Naval Group, France, demonstrating India’s successful international defence partnerships.
Significance of the Event
The commissioning of these three platforms signifies a major milestone in India’s journey toward self-reliance in defence production under the “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” initiative. All three combatants have undergone extensive sea trials and are now fully operational, ready to bolster India’s maritime strength.
A New Era in Maritime Security
With the induction of INS Surat, INS Nilgiri, and INS Vaghsheer, the Indian Navy now possesses enhanced capabilities to safeguard the nation’s maritime interests in an increasingly complex security environment. These vessels reaffirm India’s position as a formidable maritime power in the Indo-Pacific region.
This historic commissioning event is a testament to India’s growing defence capabilities, achieved through collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to indigenization.
Also read, Historic Shri Shiv Mahapuran Katha to Be Organized in Surat Under the by Pandit Pradeep Mishra
For the latest news, stories, blogs and facts Follow Us!
Instagram: @suratupdatesofficial
Facebook: Suratupdatesofficial
X: suratupdates
Youtube: @suratupdatesofficial
