Indian Navy strengthens arsenal with commissioning of INS Imphal, stealth guided missile destroyer

INS Imphal: In response to escalating maritime concerns in the Indian Ocean region, the Indian Navy proudly welcomed its latest asset, the INS Imphal, a cutting-edge stealth-guided missile destroyer. The commissioning ceremony held at the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai was graced by the esteemed presence of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.

Marking a significant leap in naval capabilities, the INS Imphal represents the third 'Visakhapatnam' class destroyer crafted indigenously by the Indian Navy's Warship Design Bureau. These powerful vessels stand as a testament to the country's self-reliance in maritime defense.

A notable distinction for the INS Imphal is its nomenclature, as it proudly bears the name of a city from the Northeastern region, a decision sanctioned by the President in April 2019. This naming choice underscores the strategic importance of the Northeast in bolstering national security. Addressing the gathering, Navy Chief Admiral R Hari Kumar emphasised the multifaceted role of the INS Imphal. He highlighted its capability not only to thwart sea-based threats but also its symbolic representation of a unified India, deterring any attempts to disrupt national unity.

Admiral Kumar further elaborated on the ongoing naval operations, citing the deployment of four destroyers dedicated to countering piracy and drone attacks on merchant vessels. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh reiterated India's heightened vigilance at sea post recent attacks on merchant navy ships.

Constructed by Mazgaon Dock Limited, the INS Imphal boasts an impressive 75 per cent indigenous content, showcasing advanced armament such as BrahMos surface-to-surface missiles, medium-range surface-to-air missiles, indigenous anti-submarine rocket launchers, and a 76mm super rapid gun mount. Part of the esteemed Project 15B (Visakhapatnam class), the INS Imphal's imposing dimensions, standing at 163 meters and displacing 7,400 tons, solidify its stature as a formidable naval asset.

Its arsenal, equipped with state-of-the-art weaponry, sensors, and surveillance radar, cements its position among India's most formidable warships. Engineered to function seamlessly under Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical (NBC) warfare conditions, the INS Imphal boasts high automation, stealth features, and exceptional survivability. With Combined Gas and Gas (COGAG) propulsion, the vessel can achieve speeds surpassing 30 knots (56 km/hour).

Having joined the Indian Navy fleet on October 20, the INS Imphal successfully completed rigorous trials, including the impeccable test-firing of the extended-range supersonic BrahMos missile. This achievement further solidifies its position as a cornerstone of India's naval prowess in safeguarding its maritime interests.

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