In a landmark event for India’s maritime capabilities, Prime Minister Narendra Modi commissioned three naval warships—INS Surat, INS Nilgiri, and INS Vaghsheer—on Wednesday at the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai. The commissioning of a destroyer, a frigate, and a submarine together marked a historic first for the Indian Navy, highlighting the nation’s growing self-reliance under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
PM Modi praised India’s emergence as a significant maritime power and a trusted global partner. “India supports an open, secure, inclusive, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region,” he emphasized, reiterating the nation’s commitment to securing the seas from threats like drugs, weapons, and terrorism. He noted that India has become the “first responder” in the Indian Ocean region and is playing a pivotal role in shaping global security, economy, and geopolitics.
The prime minister highlighted the remarkable growth in India’s defense sector, with defense production exceeding ₹1.25 lakh crore and exports reaching over 100 countries. Over the last decade, the Navy has added 33 ships and seven submarines to its fleet.
INS Nilgiri: The lead vessel of the Project 17A stealth frigate class boasts advanced survivability, stealth features, and aviation capabilities. Designed by the Warship Design Bureau and built at Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), it marks a significant upgrade over the Shivalik-class frigates.
INS Surat: The final ship of the Project 15B stealth destroyer class is a powerful addition to the Navy’s surface fleet, incorporating advanced design improvements and cutting-edge technology.
INS Vaghsheer: The sixth and final Scorpene-class submarine under Project 75 is equipped for anti-surface, anti-submarine, and intelligence missions. Its modular design allows future enhancements like air-independent propulsion.
PM Modi underscored India’s focus on development over expansionism, asserting the need to safeguard territorial waters, ensure freedom of navigation, and protect vital sea trade routes.
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