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Indian Navy Inducts Surat and Nilgiri Warships

Why in the news?

India delivered two indigenously built warships, Surat and Nilgiri, showcasing advanced technology, self-reliance, and enhanced naval capabilities under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

Historic Delivery of Two Warships to Indian Navy:

• On December 20, 2024, two indigenously designed and constructed warships, Yard 12707 (Surat) and Yard 12651 (Nilgiri), were delivered to the Indian Navy.
• Designed by the Warship Design Bureau and constructed by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), this achievement aligns with India’s Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance) vision.
• These state-of-the-art warships enhance the Navy’s operational capabilities and combat readiness.

Yard 12707 (Surat) – Project 15B Destroyer

• Surat, the final stealth guided missile destroyer of Project 15B, follows the Visakhapatnam-class ships Visakhapatnam, Mormugao, and Imphal.
• The ship features advanced weaponry, including surface-to-air and anti-ship missiles, torpedoes, and AI-enabled systems for operational efficiency.
• Powered by a COGAG propulsion system with four gas turbines, Surat achieved speeds over 30 knots during trials.
• Surat, with 75% indigenous content, is the fastest-built Indian destroyer, completed in just 31 months after launch.

Yard 12651 (Nilgiri) – Project 17A Frigate

• Nilgiri is the first of seven Project 17A stealth frigates, a follow-on to the Shivalik-class frigates.
• These multi-mission ships can address conventional and non-conventional threats in blue-water environments.
• Equipped with advanced missile systems, upgraded guns, and Integrated Platform Management Systems, the ship employs cutting-edge “Integrated Construction” techniques.
• With 75% indigenous content, the project supports MSMEs and boosts self-reliance. The remaining six frigates are under construction at MDL and GRSE for delivery by 2026.

Sources Referred:

PIB, The Hindu, Indian Express, Hindustan Times