PM Modi Dedicates Three Advanced Naval Combatants to Nation, Reinforcing India’s Self-Reliance in Defence

In a significant move towards strengthening India’s defence sector, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday dedicated three frontline naval combatants — INS Surat, INS Nilgiri, and INS Vaghsheer — to the nation. The commissioning ceremony, held at the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai, was attended by prominent dignitaries including Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Maharashtra Governor C.P. Radhakrishnan, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, and Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar, among others.

These three state-of-the-art naval combatants mark a key milestone in India’s vision of becoming a global leader in defence manufacturing and enhancing its maritime security. Prime Minister Modi, in his address, emphasized that the commissioning of these combatants reflects India’s unwavering commitment to building a robust and self-reliant defence sector. “These naval combatants will strengthen our efforts to become a global leader in defence and further our pursuit of self-reliance,” he said.

The vessels, built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders, are emblematic of India’s growing prowess in indigenous defence technology and the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. They will play a critical role in ensuring India’s national security while showcasing the country’s advanced capabilities in naval warfare and shipbuilding.

INS Surat: A Modern Guided Missile Destroyer

INS Surat is the fourth and final ship of the P15B Guided Missile Destroyer Project and is ranked among the world’s largest and most sophisticated destroyers. With 75 percent indigenous content, this vessel is equipped with state-of-the-art weapon systems, sensor packages, and advanced network-centric capabilities. The ship is designed to support helicopter operations and enhance combat efficiency, marking a major leap in India’s naval capabilities. INS Surat’s commissioning signifies the country’s increasing focus on building cutting-edge naval platforms with advanced technological integration.

INS Nilgiri: The Future of Stealth Frigates

INS Nilgiri, the first ship of the P17A Stealth Frigate Project, represents a significant advancement in the design and construction of frigates. Designed by the Indian Navy’s Warship Design Bureau, the ship incorporates cutting-edge stealth technologies that minimize its radar signature, enhancing its survivability in combat situations. The vessel’s multi-role capabilities make it a vital asset to the Indian Navy, with modern aviation facilities and improved radar systems. Its induction highlights India’s ability to design and build next-generation frigates that are capable of tackling a wide range of maritime threats.

INS Vaghsheer: India’s Stealth Submarine

INS Vaghsheer, the sixth and final submarine of the P75 Scorpene Project, is a testament to India’s growing expertise in submarine construction. Built in collaboration with the Naval Group of France, this Scorpene-class submarine is known for its exceptional stealth and versatility in various combat missions. Whether engaging in anti-surface warfare or anti-submarine operations, INS Vaghsheer is equipped with advanced sonar and missile systems that enhance its operational capabilities. Its commissioning underscores India’s increasing self-sufficiency in the construction of modern, combat-ready submarines.

A Step Towards Atmanirbhar Bharat

The commissioning of INS Surat, INS Nilgiri, and INS Vaghsheer is a clear reflection of India’s growing self-reliance in defence manufacturing. These advanced naval platforms highlight the country’s capacity to produce world-class defence equipment and contribute significantly to global maritime security. Through initiatives like Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat, India is transforming its defence sector into a self-sustaining ecosystem capable of producing state-of-the-art defence platforms.

Prime Minister Modi’s dedication of these combatants reaffirms India’s resolve to become a global leader in the defence industry, ensuring that the nation remains at the forefront of technological innovation and military strength. As these advanced ships and submarines join the Indian Navy’s fleet, they will undoubtedly bolster India’s maritime security and position the country as a dominant force in the region.

With their induction, India takes another significant step towards a future where its defence sector is fully capable of meeting national and global security challenges. The commissioning of these naval combatants signifies not only a major technological leap but also a milestone in the journey towards a more self-reliant and powerful India.