Indian Navy to Commission Stealth Frigates INS Udaygiri and INS Himgiri Together for the First Time

In a historic moment for the nation’s maritime power, the Indian Navy is set to commission two state-of-the-art stealth frigates — INS Udaygiri (F35) and INS Himgiri (F34) — on August 26, 2025, at Visakhapatnam. This will mark the first time that two major warships from prestigious Indian shipyards are commissioned together, underscoring India’s growing self-reliance in advanced naval shipbuilding.

Both vessels belong to the Project 17A class of stealth-guided missile frigates, designed and built indigenously with cutting-edge technology to reduce radar signatures and enhance survivability in hostile environments. They are equipped with advanced weapons, sensors, and combat systems, enabling them to carry out a range of missions — from anti-air and anti-submarine warfare to long-range strike capabilities.

INS Udaygiri, built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) in Mumbai, is the second ship of its class from MDL under Project 17A. INS Himgiri, constructed by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE) in Kolkata, is the first of its series from GRSE. Both warships feature a high degree of automation, improved stealth design, and enhanced operational efficiency, making them formidable additions to the Navy’s frontline fleet.

The commissioning ceremony will be attended by top naval leadership, senior defence officials, and representatives from the shipyards. The event will not only celebrate a milestone in India’s indigenous shipbuilding capabilities but also highlight the success of the “Make in India” initiative in the defence sector.

With their induction, the Indian Navy will significantly boost its operational reach and deterrence capabilities in the Indian Ocean Region, reinforcing India’s commitment to safeguarding maritime interests and ensuring security in the region.

The twin commissioning of INS Udaygiri and INS Himgiri marks a proud chapter in India’s naval history — a clear demonstration of the country’s technological progress and strategic resolve.