Indian Navy to Commission Three Advanced Platforms

Why in the news?

On January 15, the Indian Navy will commission three significant platforms—Vagsheer submarine, Surat destroyer, and Nilgiri frigate—showcasing advancements in indigenous shipbuilding and bolstering India’s defense capabilities.

Indian Navy to Commission Three Advanced Platforms

Indian Navy to Induct Three Advanced Platforms on January 15:

Key Platforms to be Commissioned

  • On January 15, the Indian Navy will commission three key platforms at the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai:
    • Vagsheer: The sixth and final Scorpene-class submarine
    • Surat: The fourth Project-15B stealth destroyer
    • Nilgiri: The lead ship of the Project-17A stealth frigates
  • These additions will strengthen the Navy’s combat potential and enhance its indigenous shipbuilding capabilities.

Indigenous Shipbuilding and Design

  • All three platforms were built at Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd. (MDL), Mumbai.
  • Vagsheer: Manufactured under license from the Naval Group of France.
  • Surat and Nilgiri: Indigenously designed by the Navy’s Warship Design Bureau.
  • These platforms feature advanced technology, showcasing India’s growing prowess in defense manufacturing.

Advanced Features and Operational Readiness

  • Nilgiri: A significant upgrade over the Shivalik-class frigates with advanced stealth features and reduced radar signatures.
  • Surat: An advanced destroyer, the next in line after the Kolkata-class destroyers.
  • Both ships have undergone rigorous trials, including fire-fighting and damage-control assessments.
  • They are equipped with modern aviation facilities and can operate a range of helicopters, ensuring operational readiness for both day and night missions.
  • Gender inclusion is also a priority, with accommodations for women officers and sailors.

This event highlights India’s progress in indigenous defense manufacturing and the Navy’s strengthened capabilities.

Sources Referred:

PIB, The Hindu, Indian Express, Hindustan Times