Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday commissioned two multi-mission stealth frigates of Project 17A – INS Udaygiri and INS Himgiri into the Indian Navy in Visakhapatnam.
It was for the first time that two frontline surface combatants indigenously constructed by two different shipyards – Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), Mumbai (INS Udaygiri) and Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Limited (GRSE), Kolkata (INS Himgiri) – were commissioned simultaneously.
Addressing the gathering here Singh said, “The commissioning bolsters India’s policy of Neighbourhood First and Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security & Growth for All in the Region (MAHASAGAR). These frigates, which will enhance the capability of the Indian Navy, send a message that India is fully capable of protecting its maritime borders and is ready to respond immediately to any situation.”
INS Udaygiri and INS Himgiri follow INS Nilgiri, the lead ship of the successor class to Project 17 (Shivalik class). They incorporate improved stealth features, reduced radar signatures, advanced surveillance radars and electronic warfare suites, supersonic surface-to-surface missiles, surface-to-air missiles and rapid-fire gun systems. Both ships feature Combined Diesel or Gas propulsion plants and a state-of-the-art Integrated Platform Management System, enabling higher speeds and improved fuel efficiency.
Singh described the commissioning as a giant stride towards the realisation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s dream of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, and a proof of the government’s vision & commitment.
“INS Udaygiri and INS Himgiri are the shining examples of the government’s firm resolve towards self-reliance, symbols of a transformative movement, and testament to the vision that the nation will touch greater heights & obtain the goal of self-reliance with concerted efforts of all stakeholders,” he said, commending the seamless collaboration between MDL and GRSE in constructing and delivering the two potent warships.
The multi-mission frigates are crucial operational enablers that will enhance the Navy’s ability to safeguard national interests across the full spectrum of maritime missions. They are equipped with next-generation weapons, sensors and integrated platform management systems, are ready to perform anti-air, anti-surface and anti-submarine warfare, sea-control and humanitarian operations.
Singh asserted that the commissioning of INS Udaygiri and INS Himgiri not only strengthens the Navy’s combat potential but reinforces its role as a “First Responder” and “Preferred Security Partner” in the Indian Ocean Region.
“From combating piracy, fighting against smuggling and illegal trafficking, curbing maritime terrorism, or providing relief after a natural disaster, these warships will prove to be a game-changer in complex and risky operations,” he said.
