Indian Navy to Commission New Warships and Submarine

January 2, 2025

The Indian Navy is poised to enhance its capabilities with the commissioning of three advanced platforms on January 15, 2025. These vessels represent leap in India’s naval technology and self-reliance, with all three constructed at Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited in Mumbai.

Overview of the New Platforms

The three platforms commissioned include the Surat destroyer, the Nilgiri frigate, and the Vagsheer submarine. Each vessel showcases India’s growing capabilities in indigenous defence manufacturing. The commissioning signifies a strategic enhancement to India’s maritime strength and showcases the nation’s commitment to a self-sufficient defence ecosystem.

Guided-Missile Destroyer Surat

Surat is the latest addition to the Project 15B destroyers. It builds upon the foundation of the Kolkata-class destroyers, which are known for their advanced capabilities. Surat features improvements in design and combat efficiency. It is equipped with a range of modern sensors and weapon systems, developed through collaborations with leading global manufacturers.

Stealth Frigate Nilgiri

Nilgiri serves as the lead ship of Project 17A.
It represents a major advancement over the Shivalik-class frigates, incorporating enhanced stealth features.
The ship has a reduced radar signature, making it harder to detect.
It can undertake various missions, including anti-aircraft and anti-surface warfare, reinforcing the Navy’s operational versatility
The vessel was designed by the Navy’s Warship Design Bureau and built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), Mumbai.
It includes systems like Rail-Less Helicopter Traversing System and Visual Aid and Landing System
It is equipped with modern aviation systems to operate helicopters like Chetak, ALH, Sea King, and MH-60R.

Diesel-Electric Submarine Vagsheer

Vagsheer is the sixth submarine of the Scorpene-class, part of the Kalvari-class Project 75. It is designed for diverse missions, including anti-surface and anti-submarine warfare. The submarine is armed with wire-guided torpedoes and anti-ship missiles. Its advanced sonar systems and modular construction enable future upgrades, such as Air Independent Propulsion technology.

Project 15B includes advanced destroyers like Surat.
Nilgiri is the first of its class in Project 17A.
Vagsheer enhances capabilities in maritime surveillance.
Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited is a key defence manufacturer.
AIP technology allows submarines to operate longer without surfacing.

Impact on India’s Defence Manufacturing

The commissioning of these platforms puts stress on India’s progress in defence manufacturing. It marks the country’s ability to design and construct advanced naval vessels independently. The successful integration of indigenous technologies enhances national security and reduces dependency on foreign suppliers. This event marks a historic moment for the Indian Navy, demonstrating the nation’s commitment to building a robust defence ecosystem.

Future Prospects for the Indian Navy

With the addition of Surat, Nilgiri, and Vagsheer, the Indian Navy is better equipped to address maritime challenges. The advancements in naval technology are expected to boost India’s strategic position in the Indian Ocean region. The Navy’s focus on self-reliance will likely lead to further developments in indigenous defence capabilities. This commissioning sets a precedent for future projects in naval warfare and technology.

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