Indian Navy Inducts New Destroyer, Frigate, and Submarine
On January 15, 2025, the Indian Navy marked a historic milestone with the induction of three state-of-the-art warships: INS Nilgiri, a new Project 17A class frigate; INS Surat, the latest addition to the Project 15B class destroyers; and INS Vaghsheer, the final submarine in the Scorpene-class project. This unprecedented tri-commissioning ceremony took place at Naval Dockyard in Mumbai, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in attendance, highlighting the significance of the event.
The induction of these advanced platforms comes on the heels of a decade-long modernization effort, during which 33 ships and seven submarines were added to the fleet. Impressively, 39 of the 40 vessels commissioned were built in Indian shipyards, underscoring India’s growing self-reliance in defense production.
The three ships—INS Nilgiri, INS Surat, and INS Vaghsheer—were all constructed at Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) in Mumbai. After completing rigorous trials involving machinery, hull, fire-fighting systems, damage control, navigation, and communication systems, the vessels are now fully operational and ready for deployment.
INS Nilgiri – Project 17A Class Frigate
INS Nilgiri is a significant upgrade over its predecessor, the Shivalik-class frigates, and is among the most advanced surface warships built in India. Measuring 149 meters in length and weighing 6,700 tons, it incorporates stealth features such as a sloped superstructure, flush deck, infrared suppression system, and acoustic quietening technology. Powered by a Combined Diesel and Gas (CODAG) propulsion system, the ship boasts two General Electric LM2500 gas turbines, allowing it to reach impressive speeds.
The frigate is armed with advanced weaponry, including:
- 76mm SRGM with DART smart homing ammunition
- Two 30mm AK-630M Close-In Weapon Systems (CIWS)
- Eight BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles
- 32 Barak-8 / MRSAM surface-to-air missiles
- L&T triple torpedo launchers and Indigenous Rocket Launchers for Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) rockets
Its primary radar, the MF-STAR by IAI, is produced by Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL). Nilgiri, along with its sister ships, is set to enhance the Indian Navy’s operational capabilities, with future upgrades expected, including advanced surface-to-air missile systems and long-range anti-ship missiles.
INS Surat – Project 15B Class Destroyer
INS Surat, the fourth and final ship of the Project 15B destroyer class, features substantial improvements over its predecessor, the Kolkata-class (Project 15A). At 163 meters long and weighing 7,400 tons, it is equipped with cutting-edge technologies, including a 75% indigenous content. Surat is capable of reaching speeds of up to 30 knots and is designed for multi-role operations.
Notable specifications and armament include:
- 76mm SRGM with a placeholder variant, possibly to be upgraded
- Four AK-630M CIWS
- 16 BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles
- 32 Barak-8 / MRSAM surface-to-air missiles
- L&T twin torpedo launchers and Indigenous Rocket Launchers for ASW
- Primary radar: MF-STAR by IAI and BEL
Surat is expected to be equipped with next-gen weapons such as VL-SRSAM (Vertical Launch Short-Range Surface-to-Air Missile) and LRLACM (Long-Range Land Attack Cruise Missile) in the future, boosting its already impressive offensive and defensive capabilities.
INS Vaghsheer – Scorpene-Class Submarine
INS Vaghsheer, the sixth and final submarine under the Kalvari-class Project 75, is one of the quietest and most versatile diesel-electric submarines in the world. This submarine is designed for a wide range of missions, including anti-surface warfare, anti-submarine warfare, intelligence gathering, area surveillance, and special operations. Its stealth capabilities are a key feature, making it a formidable asset for the Navy.
Vaghsheer is armed with wire-guided torpedoes, Exocet anti-ship missiles, and advanced sonar systems. The submarine’s modular construction allows for future upgrades, including the integration of Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) technology. This technology would significantly extend its submerged endurance, making it even more effective for extended missions.
The Kalvari-class submarines are also being upgraded, with the lead submarine, INS Kalvari, set to receive an AIP plug and the new DRDO Electrical Heavyweight Torpedo (EHWT). The Navy is also eyeing the next generation of submarines under Project 75I and Project 76.
A Progressive Step for India's Naval Strength
The induction of INS Nilgiri, INS Surat, and INS Vaghsheer signals a significant leap forward in India's naval capabilities. These platforms, built with advanced weaponry, sensors, and propulsion systems, will help ensure the Navy's superiority in the region. Furthermore, the strategic collaborations with global defense manufacturers, combined with the extensive use of indigenous technologies, represent a major step toward achieving self-reliance in defense production.
As part of the ongoing efforts to modernize its fleet, the Indian Navy is also looking forward to the next generation of warships and submarines, such as the Project 18 destroyers and Project 75I submarines, which will further enhance its operational reach and deterrence capabilities.
With these new additions, the Indian Navy is ready to face the challenges of a rapidly evolving maritime security environment, making it one of the most formidable naval forces in the world.
