INS Brahmaputra Righted with Balloon-Like Technology After Fire Devastation, Full Restoration Months Away

In a dramatic salvage operation, the INS Brahmaputra, an integral asset of India's naval power, has been righted after a severe fire nearly capsized it. The guided-missile frigate was undergoing a major refit at the Mumbai Naval Dockyard when a blaze broke out in July 2024, tragically killing one sailor and causing the ship to list precariously. The incident led to extensive flooding from firefighting efforts, which added substantial weight to the vessel, further complicating recovery attempts.

The 24-year-old frigate, part of the Brahmaputra-class series, faced extensive structural damage that required unprecedented salvage techniques. A team of foreign experts, including specialists from Singapore, collaborated with the Indian Navy to de-ballast and stabilize the ship using large, balloon-like structures. These innovative devices were essential in gradually lifting the vessel from its 40-45 degree tilt, a process that demanded precision engineering and extensive planning.

INS Brahmaputra's specifications underline its importance to India's maritime security. Commissioned in the early 2000s, the ship features a 5,300-ton displacement, is 125 meters long, and boasts a beam of 14.4 meters. Its armaments include advanced surface-to-air and surface-to-surface missile systems, torpedo launchers, and medium-range and close-range guns. It also supports helicopter operations with Seaking and Chetak aircraft, making it a formidable multi-role frigate. Despite its age, it remains vital to the Western Naval Fleet, which underscores the urgency of its restoration.

Though the ship is now upright, Indian Navy officials warn that full repairs will be a slow and methodical endeavor, possibly stretching over several months. Specialists must assess the full extent of the damage before commencing comprehensive repairs to ensure the ship's structural integrity and seaworthiness. The complexity of the task is reminiscent of past naval incidents, such as the INS Betwa’s salvage, but Brahmaputra’s unique challenges have necessitated collaboration with global experts.

Navy leadership, including Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, has prioritized this operation, underscoring the frigate's strategic value. Vice Chief of Naval Staff Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan acknowledged the intricate challenges but expressed confidence in India's and the international team’s capabilities. Meanwhile, safety audits have been intensified across naval facilities to prevent future mishaps.

As the salvage progresses, India's naval command continues to balance restoration efforts with operational readiness, aiming to reintegrate this key asset into the fleet as soon as possible, although the timeline remains uncertain.