India to Commission Three Advanced Naval Combatants On January 15
India to Commission Three Advanced Naval Combatants On January 15
Mumbai: January 15, 2025, is set to become a historic day for India as the Indian Navy commissions three cutting-edge combat platforms— INS Nilgiri, the lead ship of the Project 17A stealth frigate class; INS Surat, the fourth and final destroyer of the Project 15B stealth class; and INS Vagsheer, the sixth and last Scorpene-class submarine. The commissioning ceremony will take place at the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai.
This landmark event is a testament to India’s growing self-reliance in defense production, with all three platforms designed and built at Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), Mumbai. The commissioning highlights India’s status as a global leader in indigenous shipbuilding and defense manufacturing.
Technological Marvels Â
INS Nilgiri is a next-generation stealth frigate, significantly advanced over its predecessor, the Shivalik-class frigates. Designed with state-of-the-art stealth features and reduced radar signatures, it is equipped with advanced sensors, weapons, and aviation facilities, allowing operations of helicopters like the Chetak, ALH, Sea King, and MH-60R.
INS Surat, the culmination of the Project 15B stealth destroyer program, features substantial enhancements in design and combat capabilities compared to the Kolkata-class destroyers. Both vessels are equipped with modern navigation, communication, and combat systems, primarily developed indigenously or through strategic collaborations.
INS Vagsheer, the final submarine of the Scorpene-class (Project 75), is among the world’s most silent and versatile diesel-electric submarines. Capable of missions ranging from anti-surface warfare to intelligence gathering and special operations, it boasts cutting-edge weaponry, sonar systems, and future-ready modular construction, allowing integration of Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) systems.
Symbol of Gender InclusionÂ
INS Nilgiri and INS Surat feature accommodations tailored for women officers and sailors, a step forward in the Navy’s progressive inclusion of women in frontline combat roles.
Significance for India’s Defense Ecosystem
The commissioning of these advanced platforms underscores India’s remarkable strides in defense manufacturing and self-reliance. The rigorous trials and operational readiness of Nilgiri, Surat, and Vagsheer demonstrate the nation’s ability to produce world-class defense technology, ensuring a robust maritime force.
This event is a moment of immense pride for the Indian Navy and the nation, marking a significant leap in strengthening India’s maritime capabilities and its commitment to a self-sufficient defense ecosystem.
