3 Warships And 1 Submarine Likely to be Commissioned in a Month: Top Navy official
In a significant boost to its maritime capabilities, the Indian Navy is preparing to induct three advanced warships and one submarine within the next month. Vice Admiral Sanjay J. Singh, the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Western Naval Command, announced the upcoming additions during a recent press conference. This development underscores India’s ongoing efforts to modernize its naval forces and strengthen its maritime security framework.
The New Entrants: A Closer Look
The vessels set for commissioning include INS Nilgiri, INS Surat, INS Tushil, and INS Vagsheer, each with distinct roles and advanced features tailored to meet the Navy's evolving requirements. These additions symbolize the Navy's focus on both indigenous manufacturing and strategic international partnerships.
INS Nilgiri: The Lead Frigate of Project 17A
INS Nilgiri, the first ship of the Project 17A stealth frigate program, is designed to deliver superior combat capabilities with stealth features, advanced weaponry, and enhanced survivability. Launched in September 2019, the vessel integrates state-of-the-art radar systems, sonar technology, and surface-to-air missiles. Built at Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), this frigate represents a critical step in India’s push towards self-reliance in defense production.
INS Surat: A Next-Generation Destroyer
INS Surat is the fourth and final ship of the Project 15B Vishakhapatnam-class destroyers, which are an advanced iteration of the Kolkata-class destroyers (Project 15A). Named after Gujarat's commercial capital, Surat, this warship is equipped with cutting-edge missile systems, modernized sensors, and a robust propulsion system. The destroyer boasts advanced stealth capabilities and is designed for versatile operations, including anti-aircraft, anti-surface, and anti-submarine warfare.
INS Vagsheer: Sixth Submarine of Project-75
As part of the Project-75 Scorpene-class submarine program, INS Vagsheer is the sixth submarine constructed in collaboration with France’s Naval Group. Launched in April 2022, this diesel-electric submarine is tailored for stealth operations and armed with advanced torpedoes and Exocet SM39 anti-ship missiles. Its sophisticated sonar systems and low acoustic signature make it a formidable asset for covert missions and strategic deterrence.
INS Tushil: Russia-Built Guided Missile Frigate
INS Tushil, the second and final frigate under construction in Russia for the Indian Navy, will also join the fleet. This ship integrates advanced weapon systems, radar, and electronic warfare capabilities, ensuring multi-dimensional combat efficiency. Its induction marks the conclusion of this specific international procurement program, reflecting the Navy's balanced approach to domestic and foreign collaborations.
Strengthening Indigenous Shipbuilding
Vice Admiral Singh emphasized the Navy's commitment to fostering indigenous capabilities, with 65 vessels currently under construction, of which 63 are being built in Indian shipyards. Projects like the Project 17A frigates and the Project 15B destroyers highlight India's increasing proficiency in designing and building complex warships domestically.
The commissioning process of these vessels involves meticulous preparations after delivery. Singh noted that it takes approximately two weeks to ready a ship for the official ceremony, ensuring every aspect of the vessel is fully operational.
Strategic Implications
The induction of these four vessels will significantly bolster India's maritime defense posture. With enhanced capabilities to safeguard critical sea lanes and address evolving security challenges, the Indian Navy is poised to play a more assertive role in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). The diverse mix of frigates, destroyers, and submarines reflects the Navy’s emphasis on operational versatility and multi-domain combat readiness.
This rapid expansion is a testament to India’s commitment to securing its maritime interests and maintaining a strategic edge in regional waters. The induction of INS Nilgiri, INS Surat, INS Tushil, and INS Vagsheer will undoubtedly mark a milestone in the nation’s naval modernization journey.
