The Indian Navy is set to induct five indigenously built naval platforms this month, marking a major boost to its fleet expansion and maritime capabilities. The new additions include two Project 17A stealth frigates—INS Dunagiri and INS Mahendragiri—a large survey vessel, and two anti-submarine warfare shallow water crafts. Built by leading Indian shipyards including GRSE, CSL, and MDL, these vessels will significantly enhance India’s combat readiness, coastal defence, and underwater surveillance. Equipped with advanced systems such as BrahMos missiles, Barak-8 air defence systems, and MF-STAR AESA radar, the new frigates strengthen India’s network-centric warfare capabilities. The expansion aligns with India’s long-term vision of a 200-warship and submarine fleet by 2035, reinforcing its maritime dominance in the Indian Ocean Region.
Key Platforms in the Induction
The two Project 17A stealth frigates, INS Dunagiri and INS Mahendragiri, are among the most advanced warships built in India. These frigates are designed for multi-role operations, including anti-surface, anti-air, and anti-submarine warfare. The large survey vessel will aid in hydrographic surveys and charting, while the two anti-submarine warfare shallow water crafts are tailored for coastal patrol and underwater threat detection.
Strategic Significance
This induction underscores India’s push for self-reliance in defence manufacturing under the 'Make in India' initiative. The use of indigenous shipyards not only reduces dependency on foreign suppliers but also boosts the domestic defence industrial base. The new warships will enhance the Navy's ability to secure sea lanes, protect maritime interests, and respond to emerging threats in the Indian Ocean.
Technological Edge
The Project 17A frigates are equipped with state-of-the-art systems, including BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles for land-attack and anti-ship roles, Barak-8 long-range surface-to-air missiles for air defence, and the MF-STAR AESA radar for advanced surveillance and targeting. These systems provide a significant edge in network-centric warfare, enabling seamless data sharing and coordinated operations.
Future Fleet Expansion
The induction is part of a broader plan to expand the Indian Navy's fleet to 200 warships and submarines by 2035. This includes ongoing projects for aircraft carriers, destroyers, frigates, corvettes, and submarines, many of which are being built indigenously. The expansion aims to maintain a credible deterrent capability and ensure maritime security in the region.
