Indian Navy commissions two stealth frigates in boost to defence capabilities
PTC News Desk: The Indian Navy on Tuesday commissioned two new state-of-the-art multi-mission stealth frigates, INS Udaygiri and INS Himgiri, substantially boosting defence capabilities. The ceremony was presided over by Defence minister Rajnath Singh.
The two 'made-in-India' warships are a part of the Project 17 Alpha (P-17A).
For the first time, the Indian Navy has inducted two frontline surface combatants from different shipyards on the same day. This dual commissioning underscores the strategic significance of India’s eastern seaboard and demonstrates the successful collaboration between two leading defence shipbuilders. Udaygiri and Himgiri are the newest additions to the Project 17A class, an advanced follow-up to the Project 17 (Shivalik) frigates.
These ships incorporate major improvements in design, stealth features, weapons, and sensor systems, enabling them to perform a full range of maritime operations in Blue Water environments. They are equipped with modern Combined Diesel or Gas (CODOG) propulsion systems, an advanced Integrated Platform Management System, and a suite of cutting-edge indigenous weapons and sensors.
With nearly 75% indigenous content and contributions from hundreds of MSMEs, the project reflects the government’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) vision in defence manufacturing.
Udaygiri, built by Mazagon Dock in Mumbai, achieved the fastest delivery in its class after launch, owing to modular construction techniques. Himgiri was constructed by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE) in Kolkata. Both ships were designed in-house by the Indian Navy’s Warship Design Bureau (WDB).
Named after their distinguished predecessors INS Udaygiri (F35) and INS Himgiri (F34)—which served for over three decades before decommissioning—the new frigates honour a proud legacy while marking a leap forward in naval capability.
- With inputs from agencies
