The Government has said that four new-generation indigenous naval platforms have been inducted into the Indian Navy within a month, significantly strengthening the country’s maritime defence capabilities. The latest addition is INS Mahendragiri, the sixth indigenously designed Nilgiri-class stealth frigate, which was inducted into the Indian Navy on the 11th of this month.

Earlier, on the 21st of last month, the Navy inducted three indigenously designed and built platforms—INS Dunagiri, INS Sanshodhak and INS Agray.

The Nilgiri-class frigates are being built under Project 17A for multi-mission roles, including anti-air, anti-surface and anti-submarine warfare. Project 17A is the Indian Navy’s advanced stealth frigate programme for the construction of seven next-generation guided-missile warships.

Equipped with advanced stealth features, enhanced survivability, reduced radar signature and a high degree of automation, these warships are capable of undertaking the full spectrum of maritime operations across all dimensions of naval warfare. Built with a high indigenous content, the platforms reflect the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat and strengthen India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem. They will also enhance maritime security, support the Blue Economy and reinforce India’s position as a leading maritime power.