SOURCE: AFI
The Indian Navy is poised to enhance its maritime prowess with the addition of two advanced stealth frigates, INS Himagiri and INS Udaygiri, as part of Project 17A. These state-of-the-art warships, belonging to the Nilgiri-class, are set to significantly elevate the Navy’s combat capabilities across multiple warfare domains, including anti-air, anti-surface, and anti-submarine operations. Their induction underscores India’s growing naval strength and commitment to self-reliance in defense manufacturing.
Built with an impressive 75 percent indigenous components, INS Himagiri and INS Udaygiri exemplify the success of India’s “Make in India” initiative. Constructed under Project 17A—a ?45,000-crore endeavor to deliver seven stealth frigates—these warships are being crafted by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) in Mumbai and Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE) in Kolkata. The high level of indigenization reflects a maturing defense ecosystem, with local industries supplying critical systems, from propulsion to weaponry.
Weighing 6,600 tons each, these naval giants are designed for speed and stealth. Capable of reaching a cruising speed of 30 knots (approximately 56 km/h), they combine agility with cutting-edge technology to evade detection. Their stealth features minimize radar, infrared, and acoustic signatures, making them elusive targets on the high seas. This capability is vital for operating in contested waters, where staying undetected can mean the difference between success and vulnerability.
INS Himagiri and INS Udaygiri are equipped with an integrated combat management system (CMS), a sophisticated network that enhances their operational versatility. The CMS enables seamless coordination of sensors, weapons, and communication systems, allowing the frigates to function autonomously or integrate into a larger naval task force. This flexibility positions them as force multipliers, capable of executing high-stakes missions ranging from coastal defense to blue-water operations.
The warships’ multi-role design ensures they can tackle a spectrum of threats. For anti-air defense, they are fitted with advanced radar and missile systems to neutralize aerial targets. Their anti-surface capabilities include potent weaponry to engage enemy ships, while anti-submarine systems, such as sonar and torpedoes, make them formidable hunters of underwater threats. This triad of capabilities aligns with the Indian Navy’s evolving role as a guardian of vital sea lanes in the Indo-Pacific region.
The addition of INS Himagiri and INS Udaygiri to the fleet comes at a critical juncture, as India seeks to counter growing maritime challenges, including piracy, territorial disputes, and the expanding presence of rival navies. The Nilgiri-class frigates build on the legacy of their predecessors under Project 17, incorporating lessons learned to deliver enhanced performance and survivability.
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